JP2001126016A - Optical reader - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To permit stationary reader/portable reader to share the optical reader of a bar code reader and to read data by scanning patterns fitted to respective reading forms. SOLUTION: A first scanning pattern and a second scanning pattern are selectively emitted from reading windows 13a and 13b. A handle 12 is fitted to a read part 11 and a reader can be carried. The reader 1 can be set on a stand 2 and can be used as a stationary reader. The first scanning pattern is the scanning pattern fitted to stationary reading and the second scanning pattern for portable reading.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an optical reader, and more particularly, to a portable bar code reader having a small size.

[0002] In recent years, input of information using a bar code has been performed. For example, when a customer purchases a product at a store, a barcode attached to the product is read using a barcode reader, and the barcoded product code is input, and the purchased product is registered.

[0003] Also, when managing inventory in a warehouse, it is common to read a barcode attached to an inventory or a container containing the inventory and perform inventory management based on the barcode. Is being done.

As described above, a bar code reader is used for inputting information in various applications, and a bar code reader of a suitable form (shape or the like) is used in each application.

[0005]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventional bar code readers are roughly classified into stationary readers and portable (hand-held) readers according to their applications as described above. (1) Stationary reading device FIG. 96 is a drawing showing the appearance of an example of a stationary barcode reading device.

The stationary reading device is, for example, installed on a counter of a cash register or on a conveyor on which articles are conveyed. The stationary reading device is provided with a reading window,
Scanning light such as laser light is emitted from the reading window.
The scanning light emitted from the reading window is applied to the article provided with the bar code, and the surface of the article is scanned by the scanning light. Since the scanning light scanned on the article is reflected, the reflected light is received through the reading window to read the barcode.
The article for which the barcode is to be read passes through a position that is somewhat distant from the reading device.

FIG. 97 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the stationary reader of FIG. 96. FIG. 97a is a side sectional view of the reader, and FIG. 97b is a perspective perspective view of the inside of the reader.

A laser light source for emitting laser light is provided inside the reading device. Laser light emitted from the laser light source is rotated and driven by a motor, is reflected and scanned by a polygon mirror having a plurality of reflection surfaces, and is incident on a pattern forming mirror.

The direction of the barcode passing in front of the reading device is not necessarily a fixed direction, but generally is in various directions (inclinations). Therefore, in a general stationary reading device, the scanning light is generated so as to generate a scanning pattern in a plurality of directions, particularly, crossing each other. In the case of the apparatus shown in FIG. 96, the scanning pattern is composed of three scanning lines.

In order to obtain such a plurality of scanning lines,
A patterning mirror is provided inside the stationary device. As shown in FIG. 97, the number of pattern forming mirrors is equal to the number of scanning lines to be generated. In the case of FIG. 97b, the pattern forming mirror includes three mirrors. Therefore, the barcode surface is shown in FIG.
Are scanned by three intersecting scan patterns as shown in FIG. By being scanned in this way,
Even if the angle of the barcode is not horizontal, the barcode can be scanned.

Further, a light receiving sensor for receiving the reflected light from the bar code is provided inside the stationary reading device. Since the reflected light reflected on the barcode surface is scattered light, a condenser lens for condensing the reflected light from the barcode and increasing the amount of received light is provided in front of the light receiving sensor.

As described above, in the case of the stationary reading device, since the bar code of the article passing through the position distant from the reading device is formed, the focal position of the scanning light emitted from the reading window is The focal position is set so as to be away from the reading window.

In the case of the stationary device, the user can read the bar code only by passing the article in front of the reading window, so that the scanning at the time of reading the bar code is very simple, and the operation is easy. Excellent in nature. In particular, even when it is necessary to read a barcode attached to a large number of articles in a short time, the barcode can be efficiently read because the articles need only be passed in front of the reader. . (2) Hand-held reader FIG. 98 and FIG. 99 are drawings showing an example of a hand-held reader. FIG. 98 shows a so-called gun type reader, and FIG. 99 shows a so-called touch type reader.

The hand-held reader reads a bar code attached to an article by holding the reader in a hand and pointing a reading window at the article.

In the case of a stationary reader, articles must be passed in front of the reading window. For example, in the case of articles that are difficult to pass through the reading window, such as heavy or large articles, Makes the reading operation difficult. In addition, in the case where the article cannot be tilted, such as when liquid is contained therein, it is possible that the article can be passed in front of the reading window but the barcode surface cannot be directed to the reading window. .

On the other hand, in the hand-held device, since the device is read close to the article, the bar code can be easily read even if the article to which the bar code is attached is large or heavy. Further, even in the case of an article that cannot be tilted, the barcode can be read by bringing the reading device to the position where the barcode is attached.

Here, in the case of the gun-type reader, a form suitable for reading a bar code of an article located at a relatively distant position is used as in the case of the stationary reader. The gun-type reader is roughly divided into a head portion and a handle, as shown in FIG. Inside the head unit, there are provided a light source, a scanning mirror such as a polygon mirror and a galvano mirror, and a light receiving sensor for detecting light reflected from a bar code. The handle is used by a user to hold the reading device when the reading device is used, and a power supply or the like may be housed inside the handle.

In the case of the gun-type reader, the reading window is turned in the direction of the bar code to be read by the user holding the handle. Then, by scanning a trigger-like trigger switch attached to the handle, the laser light source is turned on, a scanning beam is emitted from the reading window, and the bar code is read.

In the case of the touch type reader, unlike the readers described above, the reader is brought into contact with the bar code as shown in FIG. 99 or a bar code is read at a very short distance. Type of reader.

A light source such as an LED and a light receiving sensor such as a CCD are provided inside the touch type reader. When reading a barcode, the barcode surface is illuminated by a light source that is turned on, and reflected light from the barcode is received by a light receiving sensor.

When a bar code cannot be directly attached to a product or the like, a plurality of bar codes are recorded on a menu sheet to create a so-called bar code menu. There is a way to read the required barcode. Because many different barcodes are recorded in close proximity on the barcode menu,
When reading a barcode menu, it is necessary to read only the barcode to be read and prevent unnecessary barcodes from being read by the reading device.

However, in the case of a stationary apparatus or the like, scanning lines scanned in a plurality of directions (sometimes intersecting with each other) are emitted, and the scanning range is very wide. Therefore, when a barcode menu is scanned using such a reading device, there is a very high possibility that unnecessary barcodes will be scanned and read, and it is very difficult to scan only a specific barcode. In addition, when reading a bar code menu using a gun-type device, FIG.
A method of separating the reading device or bringing the reading device closer to the bar code menu as in 00 is conceivable. In this case, if the reading device is located at a remote position, it is difficult to match the barcode with the scanning position of the gun-type device (in FIG. 100, the barcode position is scanned), and the gun-type device is too close. And the reading window part becomes an obstacle, and it is not possible to confirm which position is being scanned.

Therefore, even if an attempt is made to read a barcode menu using a stationary / gun type reader, the barcode which does not need to be read is read, and these readers are not suitable for reading a barcode menu. .

On the other hand, in the case of the touch-type reading device, since the barcode and the reading device are in contact with each other or are located very close to each other, only a very narrow range is the range to be read. Therefore, the touch-type reader is easy to selectively read only a specific barcode, and is very suitable for reading a barcode menu.

[0025]

As described above, conventionally, a reading device according to a barcode reading mode has been used. However, even if each reading device is suitable for a certain application,
It may not be suitable for other applications and can only be used for specific applications. Therefore, in order to support various reading modes, it is necessary to facilitate a reading device corresponding to each reading mode.

For example, as described above, in the case of a stationary reader, it is difficult to read a bar code attached to an article such as a heavy object which is difficult to pass in front of the reading window. When it is necessary to read a barcode attached to a unique article, it is necessary to prepare a hand-held reader.

Conversely, in the case of a hand-held reader, it is necessary to point the reader at the barcode. In particular, in the case of a touch reader, the reader must be close enough to contact the barcode with the reader. Therefore, when the read operability is not good and a large number of barcodes need to be read in a short time, it is necessary to use a stationary reader in order to improve the reading efficiency.

Further, since the stationary type / gun type reading device scans a wide range, there is a possibility that an unnecessary bar code is read, and thus it is not suitable for reading a bar code menu. In particular, in the case of a gun-type reading device, if the menu sheet is too close to the reading device, the barcode is hidden on the front surface of the reading device, and the position of the menu sheet being scanned and the bar to be read are determined. It is difficult to see if the code is being scanned well.

Therefore, when there is a possibility that a bar code menu can be read, it is necessary to use a touch reader. However, a touch-type reader cannot read a barcode located at a certain distance.

As described above, it is necessary to prepare an optimum reading device according to the reading mode. However, preparing 23 types of reading devices corresponding to each mode increases the cost for installing the devices. In addition, a reading device for a specific use is more frequently used than a reading device for which the reading device for each application is used at the same frequency. Preparing for is often shunned.

In order to prepare a plurality of types of readers, an extra space for installing a plurality of readers is required. However, for example, cashier counters have limited space, and when the store itself is small, there is often little room for installing a plurality of devices. In such a case, the installation of a plurality of reading devices is a disadvantageous condition for the store.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and has as its object to realize a reading apparatus capable of coping with different reading modes with one apparatus.

Further, in order to support different reading modes with one reading apparatus, it is necessary to switch the reading apparatus to a reading mode corresponding to each reading mode as needed.
Therefore, the present invention is characterized by realizing a mechanism for manually or automatically switching to a reading mode suitable for the reading mode of the reading apparatus.

Further, by setting the emission direction of the scanning line according to each reading mode or informing the user indirectly of the scanning direction of the scanning line, the reading operation of the user is assisted and the reading operation is performed. The purpose is to improve work efficiency.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a stand for using the reading device as a stationary device so as to be easily used by a user.

Another object of the present invention is to improve an optical system in a reading device.

[0037]

According to the present invention, there is provided a light source, scanning means for scanning a light beam emitted from the light source driven by the driving means, a plurality of reflecting mirrors for reflecting the scanning light by the scanning means, A reading window from which scanning light reflected by the reflecting mirror is emitted, a head unit having light receiving means for receiving light reflected from the mark, and a handle attached to the head unit and capable of being gripped by a user, The optical scanning device is characterized in that the first scanning pattern and the second scanning pattern are emitted from the reading window. And
By making these first and second scan patterns suitable for the respective reading modes, it becomes possible to easily perform a barcode reading operation in each of the stationary and hand-held reading modes.

Further, in the reading apparatus according to the present invention, the scanning means is a rotary polygon mirror provided with a plurality of reflecting surfaces and rotated by the driving means, and at least one of the plurality of reflecting surfaces is in contact with another reflecting surface. It is characterized by being mounted at different inclination angles.

By adopting such a configuration, it is possible to switch between the first scanning pattern and the second scanning pattern and emit light.

The reading window includes a first area and a second area. A first scanning pattern is emitted from the first area, and a second scanning pattern is emitted from the second area. You. In this way, by setting the area from which each scanning pattern is emitted to another area, the user can understand which scanning pattern is emitted from which position, and is emitted from an area suitable for each reading mode. It is possible to read a bar code or the like using a scanning pattern.

In particular, the first area is a first reading window,
If the second area is a second reading window independent of the first reading window, it is easy for the user to grasp where the area from which each scanning pattern is emitted is located.

On the other hand, the reflection mirror comprises a first reflection mirror group for generating a first scanning pattern and a second reflection mirror group for generating a second scanning pattern. The second reflection mirror group is composed of a single reflection mirror. Thus, each scanning pattern is generated by a different group of reflecting mirrors.

According to the present invention, the scanning width of the scanning line emitted from the second area is longer than the scanning width of the scanning line emitted from the first area. When using a touch-type reading device or the like, it is desirable that the scanning line be scanned only in a specific direction. However, by increasing the length of the scanning line, bar code reading efficiency can be substantially improved. Become like

On the other hand, the optical reading device according to the present invention is characterized in that the back surface is formed obliquely, and in particular, is formed so as to have the same angle in the emission direction of the scanning light emitted from the second area. I do. Further, a concave depression is formed on the back surface of the reading device. By adopting such a configuration, when a reading device is used as a touch-type device, a position where a barcode or a scanning line is scanned can be easily visually recognized directly, and the barcode can be surely scanned. The user will be able to confirm whether or not there is any.

Further, marks indicating the scanning position of the scanning light are provided at positions corresponding to the start point and the end point of the scanning light emitted from the second area. The mark is, for example, a mark attached to the side surface of the second area, and a display unit may be provided at a position where the mark is provided. This display means may also serve as a notification means for notifying the user of the result of reading the mark.

The marks are provided at positions corresponding to the start point and the end point of the scanning light emitted from the second area.
A projection indicating the scanning position of the scanning line may be used. In this case, it is desirable that the focal position of the emitted scanning light be set at the tip of the projection.

Further, the surface of the second area is formed at a position which is more retracted than the first area. In such a case, a transparent cover is attached to the second area, and the focal position of the scanning light is It is configured to be the tip of the transparent cover.

[0048] All of the above structures have a bar code
When the scanning position cannot be visually recognized directly or when it is difficult to visually recognize the scanning position, it is for notifying the user of which position the scanning light emitted from the second area is scanning. The user can be given an idea.

Further, according to the present invention, a first scanning pattern composed of a light source, scanning means driven by the driving means for scanning the light beam emitted from the light source, and scanning light reflected by the reflection mirror is emitted. A first region, a reading window having a second region from which a second scanning pattern different from the first scanning pattern is emitted, and a light receiving unit that receives light reflected from the mark. The emission direction of the second scanning pattern is an optical reader that is directed obliquely upward with respect to the first scanning pattern. In particular, the first scanning pattern is constituted by a plurality of intersecting scanning lines, and the second scanning pattern is constituted by scanning lines scanned in one direction.

The focal position of the first scanning pattern is set from the first area to the first position, and the focal position of the second scanning pattern is closer to the optical reading device than the first position. The second position is set, in particular, the focal position of the second scanning pattern is set on the surface of the second area.

Each of these configurations is effective for reading a bar code menu. In other words, it is more advantageous to change the emission direction of the scanning pattern when performing stationary reading and the emission direction of the scanning pattern when performing touch-type reading according to the reading mode.

On the other hand, the optical reading apparatus according to the present invention includes switching means for selectively switching between a mark reading mode using the first scanning pattern and a mark reading mode using the second scanning pattern. At the time of reading the mark selected by the above, the mark reading is enabled at least during a period in which the selected scanning pattern is emitted.

As an activation method, for example, the light source is turned on during at least a period during which the scanning pattern corresponding to the selected mark reading mode is emitted, and at least a period during which the scanning pattern corresponding to the selected mark reading mode is emitted. For example, the operation of the light receiving unit can be validated.

In addition, the mark reading operation is invalidated during a period in which the scanning pattern not corresponding to the selected mark reading mode is scanned.

Thus, for example, when a barcode sheet is being read, a problem that a barcode other than a desired barcode is scanned can be prevented.

The present invention further provides a light source, scanning means driven by the driving means for scanning the light beam emitted from the light source, a reading window from which the scanning light is emitted from the scanning means, and a light receiving means for receiving the reflected light from the mark. A first scanning pattern corresponding to the first reading mode and a second scanning pattern corresponding to a second reading mode different from the first reading mode. The optical reading apparatus further includes an instruction unit for selectively instructing the first reading mode and the second scanning mode, and a mark reading by the first scanning pattern and a mark by the second scanning pattern according to the instruction by the instruction unit. An optical reading apparatus comprising a control unit for switching between reading and reading.

The indicating means is provided at a position operable by a finger of the hand holding the optical reading device. The indicating means is, for example, a switch attached to the back surface of the optical reader, and the switch can be operated by either the thumb or the index finger of the hand holding the optical reader.

The instruction means further includes a switch main body provided on the optical reading main body and a switch plate mounted on the upper surface of the switch main body and pressing the switch main body.

The instructing means is also composed of a plurality of operation units. Depending on whether only one of the plurality of operation units has been operated or whether a plurality of operation units have been operated simultaneously.
The control unit switches the function of the instruction means between a reading mode setting function and another function. This configuration has an effect that one switch can be used by switching to a plurality of uses, and the present invention can be applied even if the switch is not for switching the reading mode.

The indicating means is detecting means attached to at least one of the side surfaces of the optical reading device, and detects whether or not the side surface of the optical reading device is installed on the installation surface of the optical reading device. Yes, or means for determining whether the scanning light emitted from one area of the optical reading device has detected a specific mark, and the control means determines whether the specific mark is While the detection is being performed, the mode shifts to one of the reading modes, and the period during which the specific mark is not detected is shifted to the other reading mode.

With such a configuration, the reading device can automatically recognize the reading mode of the reading device and automatically switch the reading mode. In this case, there is no particular need to provide a reading device for the instruction means operated by the user.

When the optical reading device is used by being set on an installation surface and used by a user by hand, a second operation device that can be operated by the user in addition to the instruction means. When the second instruction means is operated when the reading mode of the optical reading device is set to one of the reading modes, the control means changes the reading mode to the other mode while the instruction means is being operated. The mode can be switched to the reading mode.
In this case, the reading mode is automatically switched according to the state in which the reading apparatus is used, but when the user desires to switch the reading mode, the instruction unit is operated. This makes it possible to provide a reading mode according to the user's needs.

The scanning lines constituting the second scanning pattern are constituted by a part of the scanning lines constituting the first scanning pattern, and when the second reading mode is selected. The mark reading operation is validated only during a period in which the scanning lines constituting the second scanning pattern of the first scanning pattern are scanned.

In this case, there is no need to provide the first and second areas in the reading device.

The optical reading apparatus of the present invention also notifies the user of the selected reading mode.

The means for notification can be, for example, display means, a sound from a speaker, or the like.

Informing the user of the currently set reading mode is very useful for preventing the use of an erroneous reading device in advance and preventing unnecessary bar codes from being read. It is effective.

On the other hand, the present invention comprises a switch body attached to the device, and a switch plate attached to the upper part of the switch body and pressing the switch body, wherein the switch plate has two or more, preferably three triangular points. The switch is supported by a fulcrum, and when the switch plate is operated, the switch is turned in a direction in which the switch plate is operated with the fulcrum as a rotation fulcrum, and the switch means is pressed.

This makes it possible to depress the switch regardless of the position of the switch plate, thereby realizing a stable switch operation regardless of how the user holds the device or the size of his hand. be able to.

According to the present invention, there is provided a reading window through which scanning light is emitted by scanning a mark provided on an article with scanning light to detect reflected light from the mark and read information, and a handle that can be gripped by a user. A stand on which an optical reading device provided with a handle is set, the holding portion having a handle detachably set, and a base portion rotatably supporting the holding portion, wherein the reading window of the holding portion is positioned. A stand provided with a slit through which a cable attached to the optical reading device can pass.

In particular, a concave recess is formed forward from a position corresponding to the lower end of the handle on which the optical reader is set on the bottom surface of the base portion.

With such a configuration, the optical reading device can be used as both a stationary device and a hand-held device. In particular, since the detaching operation from the stand can be easily performed, the optical reading device is particularly used as the hand-held device. In this case, the operability is improved.

Further, in such a stand, the optical reader is set such that the handle of the optical reader faces the side. In this case, even if the optical reading device is mounted on the stand, it is easy to grasp the handle. When the reader is used as a hand-held device, the user grips the handle, so that such an arrangement makes it very easy to remove the optical reader from the stand.

The present invention also provides a plurality of reflecting mirrors,
A laser light source, a light receiving sensor, and a plane mirror that reflects laser light emitted from the laser light source are provided near the center thereof, and a light collecting mirror that condenses incident light on the light receiving sensor, and is reflected by the plane mirror. A rotating mirror having a plurality of reflecting surfaces for reflecting the laser light, and rotating and scanning the laser light by being rotationally driven by the driving means;
The optical unit is characterized in that it is an optical unit provided with an integrally molded frame on which a laser light source, a light receiving sensor, a condenser mirror, and a rotary scanning unit are mounted.

In the optical reading apparatus according to the present invention, since the reading apparatus is used by hand, it is necessary to pay particular attention to impact and the like, and it is desired that the reading apparatus be reduced in size and weight. Therefore, the above-mentioned demand can be satisfied by integrating the optical unit as in the above configuration.

In particular, the rotary scanning means is attached to the frame via a buffer. Since the driving means (motor) for driving the rotary scanning means is particularly vulnerable to impact,
The impact of the rotary scanning means is prevented from being transmitted by the cushioning material.

Further, the present invention provides an optical system having first and second axes provided on the same axis at both ends thereof, and a third axis attached to one side of the second axis in the vertical direction. Parts and
An optical component is attached, a first bearing in a slit shape into which a first shaft is fitted, a second bearing in which a second shaft is fitted, and a third shaft is fitted, and the second bearing is centered. And a frame having an elongated third bearing that forms a part of the circular arc.

As described above, since the optical component is supported at both ends, the rear side of the optical component can be used more effectively than when the optical component is attached to the surface. Can be used as an optical path of scanning light.

When the tilt of an optical component is adjusted, the tilt of the optical component can be adjusted by a very simple method by rotating one of the optical components in the front-rear direction and the other in alignment with the slit. Become.

[0080]

FIG. 1 is a view showing the appearance of a bar code reader according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The reading device according to the present embodiment has a function that can correspond to each type of a stationary reading device, a gun-type reading device, and a touch-type reading device. can do.

In the figure, reference numeral 1 denotes a reading device main body;
Denotes a stand on which the reading device main body 1 is set. The reading device main body 1 includes a head unit 11 provided with a light source, a scanning unit, a light receiving unit (all not shown) and the like, and a handle 12 that can be gripped by a user.

A first reading window 13 is provided on the front of the head 11.
a and a second reading window 13b. The first reading window 13a has a large area, and has a fan-like shape in the case of the reading device shown in FIG. The shape of the window is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1 and may be a square or the like. Also, the second reading window 13b is the first reading window 1
3a, the area thereof is smaller than that of 3a, and it has a linearly elongated shape. The shape of the second reading window is not limited to that shown in FIG.

The first reading window 13a, the second reading window 13b
Output different first scan patterns and different second scan patterns. Although the details of these scanning patterns will be described later in detail, scanning patterns corresponding to different reading modes are emitted.

The cable 3 is connected to the tip of the handle 12. The other end of the cable 3 is connected to an external device such as a POS terminal (not shown). The cable 3 is used to supply power to the reading device main body 1 and transmit read data (bar code data) generated in the reading device main body 1 to an external device.

A speaker for generating a notification sound for notifying the user of the bar code reading result is provided on the front of the reading device.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the reading apparatus of FIG. 1, particularly, the inside of the head unit. FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the head section viewed from the reading window side, and FIG. 2B is a side sectional view of the head section. In each figure, A is a reading window, A1 corresponds to a first reading window, and A2 corresponds to a second reading window. B is a light source, for example, a semiconductor laser is used. C is a reflection mirror (condensing mirror), which is constituted by a concave mirror. A small flat mirror C 'is attached near the center of the concave mirror. The reflecting mirror C and the small mirror C ′ may be attached later as separate members, or may be formed integrally with, for example, a resin, and then a reflective film may be deposited. The light beam emitted from the light source B is emitted toward the small mirror C ′.

The reflection surface of the small mirror C 'is formed at an angle such that the laser beam reflected by the small mirror C' is irradiated on the polygon mirror D. Polygon mirror D
Has four reflecting surfaces in the case of FIG. 2, but the number of reflecting surfaces is not limited to this. The polygon mirror D is mounted on a motor shaft (not shown), and is rotated by the motor. Also, it is assumed that the inclinations (θ) of the four reflecting surfaces of the polygon mirror with respect to the perpendicular are different from each other. Note that the inclination itself of the polygon mirror can be freely set, and only the inclination of some surfaces may be different from the others, or all surfaces may have the same inclination.

The laser light reflected by each reflecting surface of the polygon mirror D is scanned according to the rotation of the polygon mirror and is incident on the floor mirror E.

The floor mirror E is constituted by a plurality of mirrors, and generates a plurality of scanning lines constituting a scanning pattern. Floor mirror E is 8 in FIG.
It is composed of two mirrors. Among them, the floor mirrors E1 and E5 are arranged in contact with each other so as to draw an arc, and all the reflecting surfaces are directed inward. The flow mirrors E6 and E7 are floor mirrors E1 and E5.
And the reflection surface is a floor mirror E1
It is oriented in the same direction as E5. These floor mirrors E1 and E7 are provided below the first reading window A1, and constitute a first floor mirror group.

The floor mirror E8 is connected to the second reading window A.
2 below. The floor mirror E8 has a longer shape than other floor mirrors. For this reason, the scanning line generated by the floor mirror E8 is longer than the scanning lines generated by the other floor mirrors E1 and E7.

Here, when the scanning width of the scanning line is long, the width of the scanning performed within the same scanning time is wider than that of the scanning line having a short scanning width. As a result, a bar having a smaller bar width can be detected, and the resolution can be substantially increased. As described above, it is advantageous to increase the scanning width of the scanning lines. However, since increasing the width of all the scanning lines requires increasing the width of the floor mirror and increasing the size of the head, the present embodiment In the case of the embodiment, only the floor mirror E8 is a long mirror in consideration of the installation location of the floor mirror. The floor mirror E8 forms a second floor mirror group.

The number of floor mirrors constituting the first and second floor mirror groups can be appropriately selected according to the reading mode assumed by the reading device. Each mirror group may be constituted by a plurality of floor mirrors. It suffices if the scanning light emitted from the reading window by the first and second floor mirror groups corresponds to the assumed reading mode.

The scanning light reflected by the polygon mirror D is reflected upward in the figure by the floor mirrors E1 and E8, and emitted from the reading windows corresponding to the respective floor mirrors. Here, the scanning light reflected by the floor mirrors E1 and E7 is emitted from the first reading window A1 and forms a first scanning pattern. For this reason, the first scanning pattern is basically composed of seven scanning lines. The scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E8 is emitted from the second reading window A2, and the second scanning pattern is basically constituted by one scanning line having a wide scanning width.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the mounting positions of the floor mirrors E1 (E5) and E8 (E6, E7) are vertically shifted. Also, as mentioned above,
The reflecting surfaces of the polygon mirror have different inclination angles.
Therefore, when the laser light is irradiated on the reflection surface of the polygon mirror indicated by the solid line in the figure, the scanning light is reflected toward the floor mirror E1 (E5) through the path indicated by the solid line in the figure. The scanning light that has entered the floor mirror E1 is reflected upward and emitted from the first reading window A1.

On the other hand, since the reflection surface of the polygon mirror indicated by the dotted line in the drawing faces upward from the reflection surface indicated by the solid line in the drawing, the scanning light (dotted line in the drawing) reflected by the reflection surface indicated by the dotted line in the drawing is , The light is reflected upward from the scanning light by the reflection surface indicated by the solid line in FIG.
The light enters the floor mirror E8 and the floor mirrors E6 and E7 mounted above E5. The scanning light that has entered the floor mirror E8 is reflected and emitted from the second reading window A2. Although not shown in FIG. 2, the scanning light incident on the floor mirrors E6 and E7 is reflected upward by these mirrors, and is emitted from the first reading window A1.

As described above, since the inclination of the reflection surface of the polygon mirror is made different, the floor mirror on which the scanning light is incident is selected according to the reflection surface on which the scanning light is reflected, and the floor mirror corresponding to each floor mirror is selected. The scanned pattern is emitted from the corresponding reading window.

The reflected light from the bar code enters the light receiving sensor G through the same path as the scanning light exit path. For example, the reflected light corresponding to the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E1 is the first reading window.
Polygon mirror D Reflecting mirror C Light receiving sensor G Here, since the reflected light from the bar code is scattered light, a reflecting mirror C, which is a concave mirror, is provided in a part of the optical path to increase the amount of light received by the light receiving sensor G. The light reflected from the bar code is condensed by the reflection mirror and guided to the light receiving sensor G. The reflection mirror C
Is just on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor G, so that the light receiving efficiency of the light receiving sensor G can be enhanced.

Next, the emission of the scanning light will be described.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are views for explaining the state of emission of the scanning light. FIG. 3 shows the case where the scanning light is reflected by the first and third reflecting surfaces of the polygon mirror, and FIG. 4 shows the case where the scanning light is reflected by the fourth reflecting surface of the polygon mirror. It is illustrated.

As shown in FIG. 3, when the scanning light is reflected by the first, second, and third reflecting surfaces of the polygon mirror (corresponding to the reflecting surface shown by the solid line in FIG. 2). , The scanning light is a floor mirror E1 E5 (E4 and E5 are not shown)
And emitted from the first reading window A1. Here, since the reflection angles of the polygon mirrors are different from each other, the scanning light reflected by the first reflecting surface is at the first position e1 of the floor mirror, and the scanning light reflected by the second reflecting surface is The scanning light reflected by the third reflecting surface at the second position e2 of the floor mirror enters the third position e3 of the floor mirror while changing the incident position.

Therefore, the angle of incidence of each scanning light on the floor mirror is different, and the emission direction of the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror is different depending on each incident position. For example, the scanning light reflected by the first position e1 is emitted in the direction shown in FIG. Further, the scanning light reflected by the second position e2 moves in the direction shown in FIG.
The scanning light reflected by the light is emitted in the direction shown in FIG.

Due to such a difference in the emission direction of the scanning light, the scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window draws three patterns whose scanning positions are slightly different. In the case of FIG. 3, the three scanning lights a, b, and c draw trajectories parallel to each other. By configuring one scanning pattern with more scanning light in this way, the range scanned by the scanning line can be expanded, and the probability that a barcode passing in front of the reading window is scanned is increased, The barcode reading success rate can be improved.

FIG. 4 shows the case where the scanning light is reflected by the fourth reflecting surface of the polygon mirror (corresponding to the reflecting surface shown by the dotted line in FIG. 2). The fourth reflective surface is the first
The reflecting surface is slightly upward as compared with the third reflecting surface. Therefore, the scanning light reflected by the fourth reflecting surface of the polygon mirror reflects the floor mirror E6 E8 (E
7 are not shown).

The scanning light reflected by the floor mirrors E6 and E7 is emitted from the first reading window as the scanning light b. On the other hand, the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E8 is emitted as scanning light a from the second reading window. With such a configuration, it is possible to switch the reading window from which the scanning light is emitted according to the period during which the laser light is scanned.

As described above, by changing the inclination of the reflection surface of the polygon mirror, the number of scanning lines generated during one rotation of the polygon mirror can be increased, and at the same time, the scanning window for emitting the scanning light can be increased. Switching is performed.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window and the second reading window. Each straight line illustrated in FIG. 5 indicates the locus of the scanning light.
Further, the reference numerals given to the respective scanning lights indicate the reflecting surfaces of the corresponding floor mirror and polygon mirror. For example, "E11" is caused by the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E1, and this scanning light is reflected by the first reflecting surface of the polygon mirror.

The scanning patterns E1 and E7 indicate the light emitted from the first reading window, and the scanning pattern E8 indicates the light emitted from the second reading window.

The scanning light reflected by the first and third reflecting surfaces of the polygon mirror enters the floor mirrors E1 and E5. Therefore, each of these floor mirrors generates three scanning lines during one rotation of the polygon mirror. Then, the three scanning lines reflected by each floor mirror draw parallel trajectories at predetermined intervals.

The scanning light generated by the floor mirror E1 is substantially horizontal with respect to the reading window.
The scanning lines generated by the floor mirrors E2 and E5 have an inclination of approximately 45 degrees, the scanning lines generated by the floor mirror E2 rise rightward, and the scanning lines generated by the floor mirror E5 It is rising to the left.

Similarly, the scanning line generated by the floor mirror E3 rises to the right, and the scanning line generated by the floor mirror E4 rises to the left.
2. The inclination is steeper than the scanning line generated by E5.

The scanning light reflected by the fourth reflecting surface of the polygon mirror enters the floor mirrors E6 and E8. Therefore, while the polygon mirror makes one rotation, each of the floor mirrors E6 and E8 generates one scanning line.

The scanning line generated by the floor mirror E6 is scanned at substantially the same (slightly inclined) angle as the scanning line generated by the floor mirror E2, and the scanning position is determined by the scanning line of the floor mirror E2. It is a position that has not been done. Similarly, the scanning line by the floor mirror E7 has a slightly different inclination from the scanning line by the floor mirror E5, and the scanning position is a position where the scanning line by the floor mirror E5 does not scan.

The number of scanning lines generated by the floor mirrors E6 and E7 is only one for each rotation of the polygon mirror, but the number of scanning lines emitted from the first reading window can be increased by that amount. , The likelihood of the barcode being scanned can be increased.

As described above, the scanning light that is scanned in approximately five directions is emitted from the first reading window. Thereby, even if the barcode passing through the first reading window surface is inclined in various directions, any one of the scanning lines can scan the barcode in a readable unit, and the barcode reading probability is reduced. Can be improved. The scanning pattern generated by the floor mirrors E1 and E5 is composed of three scanning lines that are scanned in parallel. Therefore, even if the barcode passes through a position where scanning is impossible when only one scanning line is used, the number of scanning lines is large and the scanning range is widened. The scanning line can scan the barcode, and the barcode reading probability is further improved.

Further, the scanning line by the floor mirror E8 is
It is scanned in the horizontal direction, and is emitted straight from the second reading window. Here, since the length of the floor mirror E8 is longer than the other floor mirrors E1 and E7, the length of the generated scanning line is also longer.

Since the scanning direction of the scanning line emitted from the second reading window is fixed, the direction of the bar code to be read is determined in advance, or the position of the bar code is suitable for reading. It is suitable when you can turn it around.

As described above, in the case of the reading apparatus according to the present embodiment, a total of 18 scanning lines are generated during one rotation of the polygon mirror.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, the floor mirror E6 E
Numeral 8 indicates that only one scanning line is generated during one rotation of the polygon mirror. However, the number of scanning lines generated by each floor mirror depends on the reflection surface of the polygon mirror that causes scanning light to enter the floor mirror. Can be changed as needed by changing the number of. Therefore, the number of scanning lights generated by each floor mirror is not limited to the number shown in FIG. In the case of the reading device shown in FIG. 5, it is assumed that only one scanning light beam is emitted from the second reading window.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the locus of the scanning pattern on each reading surface. As shown in FIG. 6, a total of 17 scanning lines are emitted from the first reading window, and one long scanning line is emitted from the second reading window.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the locus of each scanning line at a position slightly distant from the reading window. In this case, an example of a scanning line at a position 100 mm away from the reading window is shown. As compared with the scanning pattern shown in FIG. 6, the scanning pattern is generally wider. As shown in FIG. 6, the scanning pattern spreads farther away from the reading window, so that the bar code passing through the position far from the reading device is shifted from the vicinity of the center of the reading window. The probability that the code is scanned is increased, and the success rate (reading probability) of barcode reading is improved.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a use form of the reading apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8A is a stationary type, and FIG.
8c illustrates an example using a reading device as a gun type, and FIG. 8c illustrates an example using a reading device as a touch type.

When used as a stationary reader,
Place the reader on the stand. In this case, the handle of the reading device is inserted into the holder of the stand, whereby the reading device main body is fixed, and the reading window faces in a predetermined direction.

When reading a bar code in such a state, the bar-coded article is passed through the reading window. As already described, since the scanning pattern scanned in a plurality of directions is emitted from the first reading window,
The scanning line scans a wide area, and the barcode is scanned by a number of scanning lines having different inclinations as shown in FIG. 8A. When reading a barcode using a stationary reader, the inclination of the barcode passing through the reading window is not constant unless the user is particularly conscious. However, by scanning the barcode with the above-described scanning pattern, even if the barcode passing through the reading window is inclined, it is possible to increase the possibility that the barcode is scanned by any one of the scanning lines. .

When the reading device is used as a gun type, as shown in FIG. 8B, the user holds the handle and turns the reading window toward the bar code surface at a remote position. Thus, the barcode surface is scanned by the scanning pattern. When a reading device is used as a gun type, the bar code is often separated from the reading window, so that the inclination of the bar code is not constant as in the case of the stationary device. In particular, barcodes intended to be read by a gun-type reader include those that are out of reach or include heavy objects, so that there are cases where the direction of the barcode cannot be changed. Therefore, even when the reading device is used as the gun type, the scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window is used for reading the barcode. Further, since the scanning pattern spreads away from the reading window, it is possible to scan a desired barcode simply by pointing the reading window at the barcode with an approximate registration.

On the other hand, when the reading device is used as a touch type, the user holds the handle of the reading device main body as shown in FIG. 8C. Then, for example, a second reading window is brought to a position of a specific barcode in the barcode menu, and the barcode to be read is scanned by a scanning line emitted from the second reading window. Although the scanning direction of the scanning line emitted from the second reading window is fixed, it is easy to adjust the direction of the barcode because the barcode menu is located at hand.

The scanning pattern emitted from the second reading window is different from the scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window so that scanning lines that cross each other in multiple directions are not generated. For example, the scanning range of the scanning line emitted from the second reading window is only within a very limited range. For example, when the scanning line emitted from the second reading window is scanned in one direction as shown in FIG. 5 but only one scanning line, the scanning pattern emitted from the second reading window is simply linear in the horizontal direction. Only the scanning surface is scanned.

The bar code is basically long in the horizontal direction, and cannot be read even if it is scanned in the direction along the short side of the bar code. Therefore, by scanning the scanning line emitted from the second reading window in one direction, unnecessary portions such as barcodes which are not to be read are prevented from being scanned, and a barcode menu is read. Thus, it is possible to prevent unnecessary barcodes, which are particularly problematic, from being read.

When the reading device is used as a touch type, the inclination of the bar code can be adjusted to the reading window, so that scanning lines having different scanning directions are not required. Therefore, when used as a touch-type reading device, a barcode is read by one scanning line scanned in one direction from the second reading window.

Here, the beam diameter becomes minimum at the focal position of the scanning line. The smaller the beam diameter, the more it is possible to read a bar code with a narrower bar width. Therefore, if a bar code is located at (or near) the focal position of the scanning line, a bar code with a narrower bar width is read. However, it is easy to read successfully. Therefore, it is desirable that the position where the scanning line focuses is near the barcode position when performing barcode reading in each reading mode.

When the reading device is used as a stationary type or a gun type, the bar code passes through a position distant from the reading window. Therefore, the focal position of the scanning line emitted from the first reading window is desirably at a position distant from the reading window, for example, about 10 cm or more. Further, in order to increase the reading range, it is necessary to provide an area that can be read in the front-rear direction with respect to the reading window. Therefore, it is desired to increase the reading depth by the scanning light emitted from the first reading window.

On the other hand, when the reading device is used as a touch type, since the bar code is very close to the reading window, the focal position of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is the second reading window. It is desirable to be on or near the surface. Further, since the interval between the barcode and the reading window is not so wide, the reading depth of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window may be small.

In the case where a reading device is used as a touch-type device, if the reading depth of the scanning light from the second reading light becomes deep, an object located at a position distant from the second reading window is also scanned. Would. In this case, there is a high possibility that a barcode that does not need to be read will be read. In particular, when reading a barcode menu, when the reader is moved to a desired barcode position, the reader passes over other barcodes recorded on the menu sheet. At this time, there is a high risk that the scanning light scans other bar codes and reads them. The barcode recorded on the menu sheet is valid as data irrespective of whether or not the barcode is to be read. Therefore, a barcode that is not necessary when the reader is moved is read. And unnecessary information is input, causing inconvenience.

In order to prevent such a situation, it is desirable that the scanning light emitted from the second reading window has a small reading depth.

FIG. 9 illustrates a modification of the reading apparatus according to the present embodiment. 9, the angle between the first reading window and the second reading window is different from the reading device in FIG.

The scanning light emitted from the first reading window is emitted in the horizontal direction in the drawing or slightly downward with the reading window oriented substantially vertically. Considering the height of the reading window when the reading device is installed on a stand and the passage position of the bar-coded article, the scanning light emitted from the first reading window should be slightly downward.

On the other hand, the emission direction of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is obliquely upward in the drawing.

In a conventional touch type reader, an LED is used as a light source.
And illuminates the whole area as large as the reading window. Therefore, when using the conventional touch-type reading device, the user gives an appropriate registration and hits the reading window near the barcode, and the light emitted by the LED illuminates the barcode as a whole. Can be read.

However, in the case of the reading apparatus according to the present embodiment, only linear scanning lines (laser light) are emitted from the second reading window, and the range illuminated by the scanning lines is linear. Therefore, in such a case, if the barcode is not correctly placed at the position where the scanning line passes, the barcode is not scanned by the scanning line and the barcode cannot be read. Therefore, in order to correctly read a target barcode, it is important to confirm the position where the scanning line is scanning and the position of the barcode and to align the reading window.

If the user's line of sight coincides with the emission direction of the scanning light from the second reading window, and there is a barcode on an extension of the emission direction of the scanning light, the reading window and the barcode are displayed. Alignment becomes easier. When using a reading device as a touch-type device (especially when a barcode menu is placed on a table), the barcode to be read is placed diagonally forward of the user, and when reading the barcode menu, It is considered that the user reads the bar code by contacting the bar code obliquely with the bar code. The reader according to the present embodiment pays attention to this point and sets the emission direction of the scanning light from the second reading window obliquely upward in the drawing, so that the user can easily register the position of the barcode, The direction in which the scanning light is emitted from the two reading windows and the line of sight of the user can be substantially on the same axis.

In the case of FIG. 9, three scanning lines having different inclinations are emitted from the first reading window. Further, one scanning line having a long scanning width is emitted from the second reading window. Note that the number of scanning lines is not limited to that shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the reader 4 shown in FIG.
FIG. 10a is a front view, FIG. 10b is a side view, FIG. 10c is a rear view, and FIG. 10d is a top view. A cover formed of an elastic member such as rubber is attached around the second reading window. This cover prevents the second reading window from being scratched when the bar code is read by the second reading window, and prevents the second reading window from being scratched by directly contacting the surface with the bar code. Absorbs the shock that occurs when is brought into contact with the barcode surface. Further, the cover acts to place the bar code and the second reading window surface at an appropriate distance from which the bar code can be optimally read. When such a cover is attached, the bar code to be read is located near the front end of the cover portion, so that the focus position of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window (the position where the beam diameter of the scanning light can be most narrowed) Is preferably located at the tip of the cover or slightly forward of the cover.

[0143] A display portion is provided above the second reading window and on the rear surface of the reading device for informing the user whether or not the bar code has been read normally. FIG. 9 illustrates an example in which a display unit is provided on a cover unit provided around the second reading window, and the display unit on the back side is not illustrated.

This display unit is turned on when a bar code is read normally or when the bar code reading fails, and notifies the user of the bar code reading state.

As a mechanism for notifying the reading state of the bar code, there is another method such as providing a speaker for generating a notification sound.

Further, a mode changeover switch is provided on the back of the reading device. The operation of the mode changeover switch will be described in detail later, but a reading mode for reading a barcode by scanning light emitted from the first reading window and a barcode reading by scanning light emitted from the second reading window. The mode is switched between the reading mode and the reading mode.

Although not shown in FIG. 10, a cable is attached to the rear end of the handle.

FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a case where the reading apparatus of FIG. 9 is installed on a stand and used as a stationary apparatus. When a reading device is used as a stationary type, a barcode is scanned by a scanning pattern (multi-pattern / multi-pattern scanning is also referred to as multi-scan) scanned in a plurality of directions emitted from a first reading window.
In this case, if the reader is arranged in a positional relationship such that the user and the reader face each other, scanning light is emitted from the reading window toward the user. With such an arrangement, the reading operation can be easily performed.

Further, since the scanning range (scanning area shown) scanned by the scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window can be widened, the bar code can be read if the bar code passes through the scanning area. In addition, the user does not need to be so conscious of the position through which the article passes when reading the barcode. The wider the scanning area, the greater the degree of freedom of the passing position of the article.

A recess is provided on the bottom of the stand for guiding the cable attached to the tip of the handle to the front.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example in the case of using as a gun type reader. When used as a gun-type reader, the user grips the handle and points the first reading window at the barcode attached to the article. Again, in this case,
Since reading is performed by multi-scanning, it is suitable for a case where it is difficult to adjust the position of a barcode in a specific direction.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a case where the device of FIG. 9 is used as a touch type. In the case of FIG.
The bar code is brought to a specific bar code position in the bar code menu, and the bar code to be read is brought closer to the second reading window. Here, in the reading device illustrated in FIG. 9, the second reading window is inclined with respect to the first reading window, and faces slightly upward. When reading a barcode menu, the barcode menu is often placed on a desk or the like for reading, so that the reading device is held up over the barcode menu. Therefore, when the second reading window is inclined as shown in FIG. 9, even when the second reading window is brought close to the barcode, the second reading window can naturally contact the barcode. it can.

When the bar code is read normally,
As described above, a display unit such as an LED for notifying the user of this is provided in the reading device. When the reading device is used as a stationary device, the user faces the reading window. for that reason,
In the case of a stationary device, when the display unit is attached to the reading window side, the display unit is easily visible.

On the other hand, when the reading device is used as a hand-held device, the user cannot see the reading window and can see only the back side of the reading device. Therefore, when the display unit is provided only on the reading window side, it is difficult for a user to visually recognize the display unit when the reading device is used as a hand-held device. However, by providing the display unit on the back surface of the reading device, the user can easily view the display unit even when the reading device is used by hand.

For this purpose, in the case of the reading device shown in FIG. 9, a display unit is attached to the reading window side and the back surface of the reading device, and the lighting state of the display unit is checked from both the front and back of the reading device. Have to be able to. This display unit may be attached separately to the front side and the back side,
A common light source (LED or the like) for the display unit may be used to guide the light from the LED to the front side and the back side so that a plurality of display units can be turned on simultaneously. In order to reduce the number of parts, it is desirable to use a common light source.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of a display unit in which an LED light source is shared. In the case of FIG. 14, an LED light source is provided on the back side of the device. Beyond the LED light source,
A clear member such as a resin is provided.

When light passes through the inside of the transparent member and the incident angle of light on the wall surface of the member is less than the critical angle, the incident light is totally reflected. On the other hand, when the incident angle of the light is larger than the critical angle, the incident light is emitted from the wall surface of the member to the outside.

The display section shown in FIG. 14 utilizes such a property.

As described above, one end of the clear member is provided with an LED light source, and the other end corresponds to a display section provided in the second reading window portion. In addition, a milky member is attached to the side of the clear member where the LED light source is attached, and constitutes a display unit on the back of the apparatus.

Light emitted from the LED light source enters the clear member. Here, the light incident on the wall surface of the clear member at an angle equal to or smaller than the critical angle is guided to the display unit provided in the second reading window portion. Thereby, the display can be performed on the display unit provided on the second reading window side.

On the other hand, the light from the LED light source that has entered the wall surface of the clear member at an angle equal to or greater than the critical angle is emitted to the outside through the clear member. The milky white member mentioned above is just LED
The light from the light source is provided at a position where the light is emitted to the outside, and the light emitted from the LED light source has a shape such that it is directly emitted from the milky white member, and display can be performed on the display unit on the back of the device. . Note that the milky white member acts as a diffusing surface to scatter light from the LED light source, so that the user can visually recognize the display content of the display unit in a wide range.

With such a configuration, it is possible to provide a display for notifying the bar code reading state on the display units on the front and back sides of the reader using the common LED light source.

FIG. 15 is a drawing showing the stand with the reading device set, and is directed to the same device as in FIG. 15a shows a perspective view, and FIG. 15b shows a side view.

As described above, the handle of the reader is inserted into the holder of the stand, thereby fixing the reader to the stand. Here, since a cable is attached to the lower portion of the reading device, the front surface of the holding portion is vertically separated so that the cable does not hinder the work of attaching and detaching the reading device to and from the stand (slit formation). .

Here, when a reading device is used as a stationary device, the reading window of the reading device is set to a position facing the user with a counter or the like interposed therebetween so that the scanning light is emitted toward the user. Then, it is easy to read the barcode. On the other hand, when a reading device is used as a hand-held device, it is necessary to remove the reading device from the stand and draw it closer.

In consideration of such a use form, it is necessary to provide a notch through which the cable can be passed in the holder of the stand so that the cable of the reader does not hinder the work of attaching and detaching from the stand. Further, in consideration of the arrangement of the reading device when used as a stationary reading device and the work of attaching and detaching the reading device to and from the stand, it is desirable that the above-mentioned notch be located in front of the user.

A recess is provided from the lower portion of the holding portion of the base portion of the stand toward the front. When the reader is set on the stand, the cable fits into this recess, and the cable can be routed to the front side. Since the cable attached to the tip of the handle cannot be bent at a steep angle, providing the recess in the base portion of the stand in this way is also effective in protecting the base of the cable.

The holding portion is rotatable in the direction of the thick arrow in the drawing with respect to the base portion of the stand. Thereby, the reading window of the reading device and the emission direction of the scanning light emitted from the reading window can be set to a desired angle, and FIG.
As shown in FIG. 5, the emission direction of the scanning light emitted from the reading window can be freely adjusted within the rotation range of the holding unit.

FIG. 16 is a three-view drawing of a stand on which the reading device according to the present embodiment is set. In FIG.
Is a top view, b is a front view, and c is a side sectional view. The holding portion of the stand is supported at two points by the base portion, and this portion serves as a pivot point. Further, the recess provided in the base portion has such a shape that its width increases toward its tip. Further, the leading end of the holding portion is widened so that the leading end of the handle of the reading device can be easily guided.

The stand shown in FIG. 16 is made of, for example, resin.

A spring is attached to the fulcrum of the holding portion, and a support member is attached to the tip of the spring. Also,
A plate such as a metal plate is screwed to a bottom surface of the base portion. Details of these configurations will be described later.

FIG. 17 is a four-view drawing showing a state where the reading device is set on the stand. In FIG. 17, a is a rear view, b is a side view, c is a front view, and d is a top view. By setting the reading device on the stand as shown in FIG. 17, the reading window (especially the first reading window) can be positioned at an appropriate height, and the reading window can be fixed in a desired direction. can do. Further, the reading device is merely inserted into the holding portion of the stand, and the reading device is simply fixed to the holding portion by its own weight. Therefore, the work of attaching and detaching the reading device to and from the stand (particularly, the operation of removing the reading device) can be easily performed.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the adjustment of the installation angle of the holder of the stand. In the case of FIG. 18, the right side in the figure is the user side. FIG. 18 shows a state in which the reading device is set vertically, a state in which the first reading window is turned down most toward the user and the first reading window faces downward (a), and a state in which the first reading window is turned farthest away from the user. (B) in which the reading window of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 18, the angle of the reading device can be freely adjusted in the range from a to b in FIG.
It is possible to set the reading device at an optimum angle according to the installation location of the reading device or how to use the reading device.

The stand can be mounted not only on the counter but also on a wall surface as shown in FIG. When the stand is mounted on the wall, the reading device is fixed at the position shown in FIG.

When the wall is made of metal, the stand can be attached to the wall by attaching a magnet or the like to the bottom of the stand. If the wall is not made of metal, the stand is attached as follows.

As shown in FIG. 16A, a screw hole is provided near the center of the bottom surface of the stand. The stand can be attached to the wall by screwing the stand into the wall using the screw holes. However, when the stand is supported at only one point, the stand may rotate around the screwed point, and the stand cannot be fixed to the wall surface in a stable manner.

As a method of preventing this, there is a method of providing a plurality of screw holes on the stand. With this method, the stand does not rotate because the stand is fixed at a plurality of locations. However, it doesn't look good because there are many holes in the stand.

Therefore, a plate such as a metal plate is attached to the back side of the bottom surface of the stand according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. The shape of the plate may be, for example, a circle, and is not limited to that shown in FIG. When the plate is a metal plate, the plate itself serves as a weight because the plate itself is heavy, and the center of gravity of the stand can be lowered even when the reader is set on the stand, so that the stand is stabilized.

The shape of the portion A of the plate is formed according to the shape of the base of the stand. For this reason,
Normally, the plate will not protrude outside the stand. The plate and the stand are fixed with two screws. The screw holes for fixing the plate provided on the stand side are also illustrated in the front sectional view of FIG. 16B.

The plate is provided with three holes on the same line. In the state of FIG. 19, that is, in the normal state, the center hole of the plate corresponds to the screw hole position on the bottom surface of the stand. Also, two screw holes are mounted just in the middle between the central hole provided in the plate and the hole a.

Here, when mounting the stand on the wall surface, as shown in FIG. 20, the plate is mounted upside down from the state shown in the figure. Here, FIG. 20A is a view of the back surface, and FIG. 20B is a view of the side surface.
In this case, the hole a of the plate is located at the screw hole position on the bottom surface of the stand. The hole b of the plate is located outside the stand.

To attach the stand to the wall, screws are attached using the holes b on the plate and the holes on the bottom of the stand (holes a on the plate), and the stand is fixed to the wall. FIG.
Is a perspective view showing the mounting operation, and FIG. 22 is a side sectional view showing the stand mounted on the wall surface. As shown in these drawings, in this embodiment, since the stand is screwed at two points, it does not rotate while the stand is mounted on the wall surface. In addition, the screw plate fixing work becomes easier.

Here, if there is no mechanism for fixing the rotation of the holding unit, even if the angle of the reader is slightly tilted, the reader naturally moves to the position shown in FIG. 18A due to factors such as the weight of the reader. It may fall down. Therefore, the stand according to the present embodiment includes a mechanism for adjusting the rotation of the holding unit in multiple stages and fixing the rotation.

FIG. 23 is an enlarged side perspective view of a main part of a stand provided with such a tilt mechanism. A support member having a plurality of teeth arranged in an arc is fixedly provided on a base portion of the stand. On the other hand, a spring is attached to a rotation fulcrum of the holding unit. A fixing member (corresponding to the supporting member in FIG. 16) having a shape corresponding to the shape of the teeth of the supporting member provided on the base portion is attached to the other end of the spring, and the fixing member is rotated by the elasticity of the spring. It is biased to the fulcrum side.

By providing such a tilt mechanism on the stand, the teeth of the support member and the teeth of the fixed member are engaged when the holding portion is rotated, and the support member is urged by the elasticity of the spring. The holding portion can be fixed in a rotated state, and multi-stage angle adjustment can be realized.

FIG. 23 shows a cable pulled out from the lower part of the reader. The cable is bent toward the reading window to ensure that the cable is pulled out to the front when set on the stand.

As described above, by setting the reading device on the stand, the reading device can be used as a stationary device, and the reading device can be detached from the stand when necessary and used as a hand-held device. .

Here, when used as a hand-held device, the user holds the handle. On the other hand, in the case of the stand described above, the handle of the reading device is inserted into the holder. For this reason, when removing the reading device from the stand, the reading device cannot be removed while holding the handle, and the handle cannot be grasped without once changing the holding of the reading device. Further, when the reading device is detached from the stand, the head must be held, but the head is large and it is difficult to grasp it by hand as compared with the handle.
Particularly, in the case of a person with a small hand, there is a possibility that the head cannot be lifted with one hand. Therefore, there is a problem that it is difficult to remove the reading device from the stand.

In order to solve such a problem, it is sufficient that the handle can be gripped while the reading device is set on the stand.

FIG. 24 shows a stand for solving the above problem. In FIG. 24, a horizontal stand is set on the stand described so far. There is a projection on the lower part of the horizontal stand, and this part is inserted into the holding part of the stand. The horizontal stand is detachable from the stand main body, and may be attached to the stand main body when necessary (at the time of horizontal installation), and may be detached from the stand main body when unnecessary (at the time of vertical installation).

FIG. 25 is a view showing a state where the reading device is set on the horizontal stand. The reading device is set in a horizontal position with respect to the horizontal stand shown in FIGS. The head unit of the reading device is placed on the horizontal stand. Also in this case, no special mechanism is required for fixing the horizontal stand to the head of the reader, and the reader is simply fixed on the horizontal stand by its own weight.

However, when the reader is placed horizontally, the handle protrudes sideways, so that the reader cannot be stably set on the horizontal stand as it is. For this purpose, the horizontal stand is provided with wall surfaces for supporting the head portion at three places. The walls provided on the left and right sides of the horizontal stand support the side of the head of the reading device and a part of the front of the head, and the walls provided at the back of the horizontal stand face the back of the head of the reading device. To support. The direction of the first reading window of the reading device is defined by these wall surfaces, and the first reading window can be directed to the front of the user. Further, it is possible to prevent the reading device from dropping from the horizontal stand.

In the case of FIG. 25, the handle of the reading device is placed on the right side. As described above, since the handle is not inserted into the stand and is out of the stand, the user can easily grasp the handle, and can remove the reading device from the stand while holding the handle.

Note that the horizontal stand has a left-right symmetrical shape, and the handle can be placed on either the right side or the left side as shown in FIG. 26a shows a state where the handle is on the left side (the left hand side of the user), and FIG. 26b shows a state where the handle is on the right side (the right hand side of the user). Here, FIG. 26b illustrates a wall surface supporting the front surface of the head portion, but in FIG. 26a, the wall surface is not illustrated so that the state of the head portion on the horizontal stand can be easily understood.

As shown in FIG. 26, the handle of the reading device can be arranged on the left or right, so that the handle when the reading device is placed on the stand sideways according to whether the user is right-handed or left-handed. You can choose the direction of

Here, when trying to read a bar code, the user tends to intentionally orient the bar code horizontally or vertically to pass through the reading window surface. In addition, for example, in the case of a can, for example, the barcode is printed in a vertical direction, and in many cases, the vertical direction and the horizontal direction of the article with the barcode coincide with the longitudinal direction of the barcode, The probability that the direction of the barcode passing through the reading window naturally becomes the horizontal direction and the vertical direction in consideration of the manner of operation of the user is high.

For this reason, when reading a barcode with a stationary device, the angle of the barcode is irrelevant, but in consideration of the above points, the scanning pattern emitted from the reading window is substantially horizontal. It is desirable to include a vertical pattern.

Therefore, when the reading device is set on the horizontal stand, at least one of the scanning patterns emitted from the first reading window is scanned at an angle such that it can be scanned in the horizontal direction. Set the device. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 26, the reading device is set such that the handle of the reading device is slightly inclined downward. By setting the reading device at such an angle, one of the scanning patterns is scanned in a substantially horizontal direction.

Similarly, one of the scanning patterns emitted from the first reading window is set to be scanned in a substantially vertical direction.

As described above, by setting the scanning pattern in the horizontal / vertical direction, the horizontal / vertical direction having a high probability of passing is obtained.
The direction of the bar code in the vertical direction matches the scanning direction of the scanning line, so that the bar code can be read more reliably.

FIGS. 27 and 28 are diagrams for comparing the setting of the reader on the stand in the case of the vertical and horizontal arrangements. FIG. 27 illustrates a vertical stand, and FIG. 28 illustrates a horizontal stand.

As shown in FIG. 27, when a vertical stand is used, the reading device set on the stand is easy to stabilize because the handle is inserted into the holding portion. It is difficult to remove the reader from the stand, and it is difficult to attach / detach the reader.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 28, when a horizontal stand is used, the user can easily attach and detach the reading device because the grip of the reading device can be easily gripped. When the device is used as a hand-held device, there is no need to change the handle. However, since the handle protrudes sideways, it is difficult to balance the weight, and the reading device set on the stand is difficult to stabilize.

[0205] Therefore, the user may appropriately select the vertical placement or the side weeping in consideration of the mode of using the reading device and the advantages and disadvantages of each stand.

When a reading device is used as a stationary device or a gun-type device, multi-scan is performed using a scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window. The scanning light is not directly involved in reading the barcode.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 9, the emission direction of the scanning pattern from the first reading window and the emission direction of the scanning light from the second reading window are different from each other. (Angle). Therefore, when the scanning light is emitted from the first and second reading windows together, the stationary type
When the scanning pattern from the first reading window is aimed at the bar code to be read when using the reading device as a gun-type device, the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is It is emitted in a direction completely different from the barcode, and scans a completely unrelated part.

[0208] Therefore, there is a possibility that the reading device detects reflected light from a portion other than the bar code to be read scanned by the scanning light from the second reading window. This may cause noise or misrecognition of the reader,
In this case, a reading error occurs in the reading device.

On the other hand, when a reading device is used as the touch-type device, no consideration is given to using the scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window for bar code reading. However, as shown in FIG. 8C, even when a barcode on the barcode menu is read using the scanning line from the second reading window, the scanning light continues to be emitted from the first reading window. In such a case, a barcode that is not a reading target is scanned by the scanning light from the first reading window.
Therefore, the reading device detects both the reflected light based on the scanning light from the first reading window and the reflected light based on the scanning light from the second reading window.

If both reflected lights contain valid bar code data, the reader cannot distinguish which data is necessary. Regardless of whether the data needs to be entered or not, the barcodes recorded on the barcode menu are all valid data. Are mixed, and double reading of the barcode occurs. In this case, since it is impossible to input only necessary information, the input information is deleted or data is input again as necessary.

In order to solve such a problem, bar code reading based on scanning light from a reading window that does not correspond to the reading mode is performed according to the reading mode of the reading apparatus. During the period when the scanning light is emitted from the reading window, it is necessary to substantially invalidate the period.

FIG. 29 is a diagram partially showing the polygon mirror, and shows a configuration for grasping the position where the scanning line is scanning. A disc-shaped member provided with a plurality of slits is attached to the bottom surface of the polygon mirror D. Further, a sensor I for detecting passage of the slit is provided on a base portion to which the polygon mirror is attached. The sensor I outputs a mirror position detection signal by detecting the passage of the slit.

One of the slits provided in the disk member has a large slit width to indicate the reference of the polygon position. By detecting the slit indicating the position reference by the sensor, the control unit (not shown) of the reading device can recognize that the specific surface of the polygon mirror has passed the sensor position and grasp the rotation state of the polygon mirror, At the same time, it is possible to determine which floor mirror the scanning light is incident on.

If the reference position is set to the specific position of the polygon mirror, it is possible to confirm that the specific position of the polygon mirror has passed the sensor position, and by counting the number of slits passed after the detection of the reference position, it is possible to determine the position of the polygon mirror. It can be easily confirmed which surface passes through the sensor position.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an output waveform of the sensor shown in FIG. 29 and a mirror position detection signal waveform based on the output waveform. 30A shows the sensor output, and FIG. 30B shows the mirror position detection signal. In FIG. 30, (1) is a first reflecting surface,
(2) is a second reflecting surface, (3) is a third reflecting surface, (4)
Corresponds to the fourth reflecting surface.

Further, in the figure, E1 and E8 indicate floor mirrors on which the scanning light reflected by the respective reflecting surfaces is incident, and correspond to the floor mirrors shown in FIG. 2, respectively. Here, regarding the portion designated as “E1 E5”, the actual scanning order is E3 E2 E1E when the polygon mirror is rotating clockwise in FIG.
5 The order is E4.

In the sensor output shown in FIG. 30A, a signal is turned on when a slit is detected, and turned off in portions other than the slit. Further, the width of the ON period of the signal corresponds to the width of the slit. As shown in FIG. 30A, the position reference is set at a position corresponding to the time when the scanning light reflected by the first reflecting surface starts scanning the floor mirrors E1 and E5 (actually, the floor mirror E3). A wide slit is provided.

Since the ON period of the sensor output is wide in this part, the control unit of the reading device (not shown) determines that the scanning light reflected by the first reflecting surface of the polygon mirror has started scanning the floor mirror E3. recognize.

On the other hand, the number of slits provided on the disk member is known in advance, and it is also known in advance what number slit corresponds to which position on the reflection surface of the polygon mirror. Therefore, if the positional relationship between the passage of the sensor and each reflection surface of the polygon mirror is set in advance in the control unit or the like, the number of passages of the slit after the detection of the reference slit is counted, so that the position of the polygon mirror can be determined. The control unit can easily grasp which floor mirror the reflecting surface is scanning. Then, the control unit recognizes a period during which the scanning light from the fourth reflecting surface of the polygon mirror scans the floor mirror E8, and turns on the mirror position detection signal during this period as shown in FIG. And

FIG. 31 is a functional block diagram of the reading device. In the figure, reference numeral 61 denotes a sensor attached to the base of the polygon mirror, and a slit 6
6 is to be detected. 63 is a control unit,
It controls the operation of the reading device. Of these, 64 is a counter for counting the output of the sensor 61. Reference numeral 65 denotes a laser diode serving as a light source, and reference numeral 66 denotes a light receiving circuit for detecting light reflected from the bar code. The operations of the laser diode 65 and the light receiving circuit 66 are controlled by the control unit 63, respectively.

Further, reference numeral 62 denotes a mode selection switch.
The reading device includes a first reading mode (multi-scan mode) in which a scanning pattern including a large number of scanning lights is emitted from a first reading window, and a second scanning mode in which one scanning light is emitted from a second reading device. And two reading modes (single scan). The user can switch between the first reading mode and the second reading mode by operating the mode selection switch as needed, and can set the reading mode desired by the user.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart for explaining the switching of the reading mode depending on whether or not the mode selection switch is operated. The control unit constantly monitors whether the mode selection switch has been operated. When the mode selection switch is not operated, the reading mode is set to the multi-scan mode, and the light source is controlled so that the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window.

On the other hand, when it is detected that the mode selection switch has been operated, the control unit switches the reading mode to the single scan mode, and controls the lighting of the light source so that the scanning light is emitted only from the second reading window. I do.

The bar code is read based on the reading mode selected as described above.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing more specifically how the light source lighting control is performed.

In the multi-scan mode, the scanning light emitted from the first reading window is required, so that the floor mirror E
The scanning light reflected by 8 is not particularly necessary for reading a bar code. On the other hand, in the single scan mode, only the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is required, so that only the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E8 is required, and other scanning light is unnecessary.

Therefore, when the reading mode is the single scan, the control unit turns on the laser light source only while the polygon mirror is scanning the floor mirror E8.
Read the barcode. On the other hand, when the reading mode is the multi-scan mode, the control unit turns off the laser light source while the floor mirror E8 is scanned, and reads the barcode.

By performing such lighting control,
Scanning light can be emitted only from the reading window corresponding to each reading mode.

FIG. 34 shows output waveforms of the respective parts shown in FIG.

The output from the mode selection switch is supplied to the control unit. However, when the first reading mode is selected (the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window A1), the output is turned off. Is selected (the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window A2). The control unit checks the output of the mode selection switch, determines which reading mode is selected, and controls the lighting of the laser diode according to the result.

The mirror position detection signal is the same as that shown in FIG. 30, and is turned on while the fourth surface of the polygon mirror is scanning the floor mirror E8.

When the user is trying to use the reading device as the touch-type device in the second reading mode, the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window during the period in which the mode selection switch is turned on. Scanning light must not be emitted from the reading window. Therefore, the control unit controls the laser light source to be turned on during a period in which the mirror position detection signal is on, and a period in which the mirror position detection signal is off (a period during which the floor mirrors E1 and E7 are scanned). Controls the laser light source to turn off. Thereby, laser light is emitted only from the second reading window,
Even when reading a barcode menu using a reading device as a touch-type device, a situation in which the scanning light emitted from the first reading window scans an irrelevant barcode and double reading occurs. Can be prevented.

On the other hand, when the user uses the reading device as a stationary / gun type device, the mode selection switch output is turned off. The control unit turns on the laser light source while the mirror position detection signal is off based on this,
While the mirror position detection signal is on (scanning light from the fourth reflecting surface of the polygon mirror is
Is controlled to turn off the laser light source.

By such control, even when a reading device is used as a stationary / gun type device, it is possible to prevent the scanning light from being emitted from the second reading window, and it is possible to prevent the scanning light other than the bar code from being emitted. Irrelevant items can be prevented from being scanned.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an example of the mode selection switch. FIG. 35 illustrates the back surface of the reading device. In the reading device of the embodiment shown in FIG. 35, a mode selection switch is provided on the back of the reading device. The mode selection switch is operated by the index finger, thumb, or the like of the hand holding the handle of the user.

The mode selection switch needs to be mounted at a position where it can be easily operated by fingers holding the handle.
In particular, a person with a large hand or a person with a small hand must be able to operate the mode selection switch in the same manner.

The mode selection switch is also provided in, for example, the reader shown in FIG. In the case of FIG. 10, the mode selection switch has a V-shape.
With the V-shape, the mode selection switch can be made vertically longer and wider.

The position on the switch where the finger is placed differs between when the switch is operated with the index finger and when the switch is operated with the thumb. Therefore, by setting the mode selection switch to be vertically long, it is possible to operate the mode selection switch with the index finger or the thumb. Also, by widening the mode selection switch, even people with long fingers can
A person with short fingers can operate the mode selection switch in the same manner.

FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the mode selection switch (function changeover switch) is operated with the forefinger. In this case, the user holds the handle with a finger other than the index finger and extends the index finger. The mode selection switch is provided at a position where the index finger just hits.

Here, when the handle is gripped as shown in FIG. 36, the space between the index finger and the thumb opens in a V-shape depending on the operator. Therefore, the index finger is located on the right side of the mode selection switch when the handle is gripped with the right hand, and the index finger is located on the left side of the mode selection switch when gripped with the left hand. By widening the mode selection switch in this way, the index finger can be naturally placed on the mode selection switch when the handle is gripped as shown in FIG. Further, the mode selection switch can be operated in the same manner by operating with the right hand or the left hand.

FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating a case where the mode selection switch (function changeover switch) is operated with the thumb. In this case, the handle is gripped by the fingers other than the thumb and the base of the thumb.

When operating the mode selection switch with the thumb, the thumb mainly operates the root of the mode selection switch.

As described above, the position of the finger is different between the case where the mode selection switch is operated with the index finger and the case where the mode selection switch is operated with the thumb. Therefore, by making the mode selection switch vertically long, it becomes possible to respond to the switch operation by the index finger / thumb, and by making the mode selection switch V-shaped, even if the switch is operated in various ways. The switch can be pressed down reliably.

FIG. 38 is a view showing a V-shaped switch plate. The switch board shown in FIG. 38 is supported at three points, and three fulcrums of a fulcrum A, a fulcrum B, and a fulcrum C are provided at each vertex of the switch board. Each fulcrum is inserted into an opening provided on the back surface of the apparatus (not shown), and is supported by a projection in the opening. Here, a claw is formed at the tip of each fulcrum, and the fulcrum can be prevented from being lifted up by the claw.

Further, a switch is provided at a portion corresponding to the center of the switch plate of the reading apparatus main body. By operating the switch plate, it is possible to press the switch, but regardless of the position of the switch plate,
The push-down portion of the switch attached to the reading device main body can be pushed down, so that a person with small hands can easily operate the switch as compared with the case where the switch is arranged only at one point. This switch plate is in a state of being slightly biased upward by a spring or the like inside the switch.

FIG. 39 is a view for explaining the operation of the switch plate. Here, A, B, and C are respectively shown in FIG.
Is shown. The external shape of the switch plate is shown in FIG.
Are not shown.

FIG. 39a shows the case where the vicinity of the fulcrum A is operated, and FIG. 39b shows the case where the vicinity of the fulcrum B is operated. When the vicinity of the fulcrum A is operated, the fulcrum B and the fulcrum C are fixed, and the straight line connecting the fulcrum B and the fulcrum C becomes the rotation fulcrum of the switch plate. Thus, when the vicinity of the fulcrum A of the switch plate is operated, the switch plate is pushed downward around the fulcrum B and the fulcrum C, and the switch is depressed.

Similarly, when the vicinity of the fulcrum B is operated, the fulcrum A and the fulcrum C are fixed, and a straight line connecting the fulcrum A and the fulcrum C serves as a rotation fulcrum of the switch plate, and the switch plate is pushed downward. And the switch is pressed.

As described above, by providing the switch plate, the switch can be pressed down even if any part of the switch plate is operated, and the mode selection switch can be operated stably regardless of the size of the user's hand. Becomes Here, the number of the fulcrums does not need to be three, but if the number of the fulcrums is three, the rotation fulcrum (rotation axis) with respect to the pressed point is uniquely determined. Is most effective when the switch plate is supported at three points.

The switch plate is attached to the reader so as not to protrude from the back of the reader.
If the switch plate protrudes from the back of the reader, the reading mode of the reader may be switched to the one that the user does not intend when the reader is placed on a table with the back of the reader facing down. It is because there is.

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing another function changeover switch. In the case of FIG. 40, a changeover switch for front operation is provided near the base of the handle. Since this position is a position where the index finger comes just when the handle is gripped with one hand, the front switch can be operated with the index finger. In particular, since this shape is mounted at the same position as a trigger (trigger) switch provided in the gun-type reader, the changeover switch becomes easy to operate.

In FIG. 40, the mode selection switch on the back of the reading device is omitted. However, there is no problem even if the mode selection switches are attached to the back and front of the reading device at the same time.

FIG. 41 shows still another example of the changeover switch. In the case of FIG. 41, a side switch is provided on the side surface of the head unit of the reading device.
The side switch includes a side switch L provided on the left side of the reading device and a side switch R provided on the right side of the reading device.

When the handle is gripped with one hand, the thumb and the index finger can be brought to the respective side switch positions. When the handle is gripped with the right hand, the side switch L is operated with the thumb and the side switch R is operated with the index finger, and the handle is gripped with the remaining fingers. The opposite is true when the handle is gripped with the left hand. Thus, in consideration of the operation by the right hand and the operation by the left hand, the side switches are provided on both sides of the reading device. Also,
With this arrangement, the two side switches can be easily operated simultaneously. Of course, only one side switch may be operated.

In the case of the reading device shown in FIG.
Since side switches are provided on both sides of the apparatus, the functions of the side switches are switched by using the side switches depending on whether one side switch is operated or when both side switches are simultaneously operated.

When only one side switch is operated, the side switch functions as a mode selection switch. In this case, it does not matter which side switch is operated.

When both side switches are operated at the same time, the side switches do not function as mode selection switches, but have completely different functions.

For example, when one of the left and right side switches is operated (regardless of which is operated), the reading mode is switched, and when the left and right side switches are simultaneously operated. Is to execute a special reading process, for example, a repeat input function of a read product.

The control unit of the reading device constantly monitors the operation status of the left and right side switches, and determines whether the left and right side switches have been operated simultaneously or only one side switch has been operated. The process to be executed is selected based on the result.

Here, when reading a plurality of barcodes having the same contents, for example, when registering a plurality of products at the same time, it takes time to read each barcode one by one. Therefore, a reading device having a repeat input function is known.

When using the repeat input function, first, a bar code is read. Then, the repeat input keys are operated by the number of products that normally require barcode input. The repeat input key acts as a counter key, and the number of times the key is operated is counted by the reading device, and it is determined how many identical products are present.

By using such a repeat input function, it is not necessary to read the barcode attached to the same product one by one.

In the present embodiment, simultaneous operation of two side switches and only operation of one side switch are selected.
Two functions can be given to the side switch.
That is, the function of the side switch is switched between when one side switch is operated and when both side switches are simultaneously operated. As described above, the functions of the keys, such as the repeat input key and the mode selection switch, can be switched according to the number of operated switches, and the number of switch keys can be reduced.

As described above, in order to perform reading corresponding to the reading mode, here, when the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window, the scanning light is not emitted from the second reading window and the second reading window is emitted. When the scanning light is emitted from the reading window, the reading mode is switched by controlling the lighting of the laser light source so as not to emit the scanning light from the first reading window. However, switching of the reading mode is not limited to this method.

FIG. 42 is a view for explaining switching of the reading mode by another method. FIG. 42 illustrates a light receiving circuit control signal for controlling the light receiving circuit from the control unit, together with the mode selection switch output and the mirror position detection signal. In the case of FIG. 42 as well, the internal configuration of the apparatus may be the same as that of FIG. 31, and the scanning position may be confirmed by the configuration of FIGS. 29 and 30, that is, by counting the slits provided on the disk member.

The light receiving circuit control signal is a signal for controlling whether the light receiving circuit is operated or stopped. The light receiving circuit operates while the light receiving circuit control signal is on, and the light receiving circuit control signal is used. The light receiving circuit does not operate during the period when is turned off.

In the case of FIG. 42, when the mode selection switch is in the A2 window, that is, when the single scan mode is selected, the control section turns on the light receiving circuit control signal while the mirror position detection signal is on. The light receiving circuit control signal is turned off while the mirror position detection signal is off. Thereby, when the single scan mode is selected, the operation of the light receiving circuit is enabled only during a period in which the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window, and the operation of the light receiving circuit is disabled during other periods. You.

For this reason, in the single scan mode, even if the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window, the light receiving circuit does not receive the reflected light from the bar code or the like. Even if the barcode is scanned, the reading operation is substantially invalidated. The bar code can be read because the operation of the light receiving circuit is effective during the period in which the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window.

On the other hand, in the case of the multi-scan mode,
The mode selection switch output turns off. Therefore, the control unit recognizes this and turns on the light receiving circuit control signal to enable the operation of the light receiving circuit during the period when the mirror position detection signal is off, and receives light during the period when the mirror position detection signal is on. The operation of the light receiving circuit is invalidated by turning off the circuit control signal.

As a result, the operation of the light receiving circuit is effective while the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window, and the bar code can be read. In addition, since the operation of the light receiving circuit is disabled while the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window, the light receiving circuit receives the reflected light even when the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window. do not do.

FIG. 43 is a drawing showing the above control as a flowchart. The control unit first determines the set reading mode. When the single scan mode is selected, the light receiving circuit is operated only while the floor mirror E8 is being scanned. On the other hand, when the multi-scan mode is selected, the control unit does not operate the light receiving circuit while the floor mirror E8 is being scanned, and operates the light receiving circuit while the other floor mirror is being scanned. .

As described above, by performing the control shown in FIGS. 42 and 43, even if the turning on / off of the laser diode is not performed, the period during which the scanning light is emitted from the reading window that does not correspond to the reading mode can be obtained. Can substantially disable the barcode reading operation.

Here, the switching of the operation of the light receiving circuit between valid and invalid may be performed by switching the operation of the light receiving element or by invalidating the operation of the circuit for processing the signal output from the light receiving element. . The read data is demodulated in the reading device, but the demodulation operation may be enabled / disabled.

FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a case where the operation of the demodulation circuit is controlled in accordance with the state of scanning. In the case of FIG. 44, when the control unit determines that the reading mode is the single scan mode, the demodulation circuit is operated only while the floor mirror E8 is being scanned, and the operation of the demodulation circuit is stopped during other periods. Let it.

On the other hand, if the control unit determines that the multi-scan mode is currently selected, the floor mirror E
During the period when 8 is scanned, the operation of the demodulation circuit is invalidated,
In other periods, the operation of the demodulation circuit is validated.

[0276] The switching between the valid / invalid state of the light receiving circuit and the like and the turning on / off of the laser diode may be combined. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the scanning light from being emitted from the window that is not compatible with the reading mode, and to prevent the light receiving circuit from detecting disturbance light that enters from the reading window during that period. Can be more reliably performed.

FIG. 45 is a diagram showing a configuration for performing another reading mode switching. In the case of FIG. 45,
There is no mirror corresponding to the floor mirror E8. The angle of E1 ′ (corresponding to the floor mirror E1 in FIG. 2), which is one of the floor mirrors, is configured to be variable according to the operation of the solenoid H.

The solenoid H can move in the left-right direction in the figure, and an arm is attached to its tip. Since the floor mirror E1 'is attached to the arm,
Floor mirror E according to the horizontal movement of solenoid H
The angle of 1 'changes.

When the floor mirror is at the first position (solid line in the figure), the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E1 'is emitted from the first reading window A1. On the other hand, when the floor mirror E1 'is at the second position (dotted line in the drawing), the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E1' is emitted from the second reading window A2.

Therefore, when the reader is used as the stationary / gun type device, the floor mirror E1 'is set at the first position, and when the reader is used as the touch type device, the floor mirror E1' is set at the second position. Position. The position of the floor mirror E1 'is controlled based on the operation of the mode selection switch.

When the mode selection switch output is on, that is, when the single scan mode is selected, the control unit operates the solenoid to move the floor mirror E1 'to the second position. When the mode selection switch output is off, that is, when the multi-scan mode is selected, the control unit operates the solenoid based on this to move the floor mirror E1 'to the first position.

With such a configuration, in the case of the multi-scan mode, no scanning light is emitted from the second reading window. However, in the case of single mode scanning, scanning light is emitted from the first reading window together with the second reading window. Therefore, when the single scan mode is selected, it is necessary to invalidate the barcode reading operation during the period when the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window.

FIG. 46 is a diagram showing signal waveforms for performing such control. In the figure, the mode selection switch output is the same as that in FIGS. Also,
The mirror position detection signal is turned on while the reflection surface of the polygon mirror is scanning the floor mirror E1 ', and is turned off while other floor mirrors are being scanned.
In this case, the period during which the mirror position detection signal is on may be limited to the period corresponding to the specific reflection surface, or may be a plurality of surfaces. In the case of FIG. 46, the mirror position detection signal is turned on only when one specific reflection surface of the polygon mirror scans the floor mirror E1 '.

The light source control signal is for controlling the lighting of the laser light source. When the laser light source is on, the laser light source is turned on, and during the off period, the laser light is off.

In the case of FIG. 46, when the multi-scan mode is selected (the output of the mode selection switch is turned off), the laser light source is kept turned on regardless of the scanning position of the polygon mirror. On the other hand, when the single scan mode is selected, while the mirror position detection signal is on,
That is, the light source control signal is turned on only while the floor mirror E1 'is being scanned, and the laser light source is turned on. During other periods, the light source control signal is turned off and the laser light source is turned off.

FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing such control. When the set reading mode is the single scan mode, the control unit drives the solenoid to move the floor mirror E1 'to the position b, and turns on the laser light source only while the floor mirror E1' is being scanned. Turn on.

On the other hand, when the multi-scan mode is selected, the control unit drives the solenoid to move the floor mirror E1 'to the position "a" and constantly turns on the laser light source.

As described above, by performing the control as shown in FIGS. 46 and 47 by the apparatus shown in FIG. 45, in the case of the multi-scan mode, the scanning light is emitted only from the first reading window and the single reading window is emitted. In the case of the scan mode, the scanning light is emitted only from the second reading window. Therefore, the reading operation is enabled only during the period in which the scanning light is emitted from the reading window corresponding to the reading mode, and erroneous detection of noise and double reading can be prevented.

In the case of FIG. 45, the lighting control of the light source was used. However, the apparatus shown in FIG. 45 may switch the validity / invalidity of the light receiving circuit and the demodulation operation.

FIG. 48 is a view showing a state in which the reading device is directly installed on a desk (without using a stand). In FIG. 48, the reading device is placed horizontally on a desk.
As can be seen particularly from the top view of FIG. 10, the side surface of the head portion of the reading device is beveled obliquely. Therefore, when the reading device is installed on the desk, the reading window faces obliquely upward by an angle corresponding to the angle of the side surface of the reading device. Therefore, the barcode reading area is positioned obliquely above the reading device.

When the reading device is arranged on the table, the article with the bar code to be read passes over the reading device, so that the reading window is directed upward and the reading area is read. The reading area is set near the position of the article passing through the reading area, and the barcode reading operation can be easily performed.

On the other hand, when the reading window is oriented substantially in the horizontal direction, a part of the scanning range by the scanning light is blocked by the table, which causes a problem that the scanning range is substantially reduced. . Further, since the barcode must be passed through a position very close to the tabletop, readability is deteriorated.

As described above, when the reading device is installed on a table without using a stand or the like, the reading window is directed obliquely upward so that the scanning light is emitted upward, and the reading operation is performed. Performance can be improved.

In the reading device shown in FIG. 48, FIG.
As when using a horizontal stand like
When the reading device is used as a hand-held device, the handle can be grasped immediately, and the reading device does not need to be changed. Further, in the case of the reader of FIG. 48, since no stand is particularly required, both the functions of the stationary apparatus and the hand-held apparatus can be realized by the reader alone.

When the reading device is installed on a table like the reading device shown in FIG. 48, the multi-scan mode is basically performed. When the reading device is set on the table, one of the side surfaces of the reading device is in contact with the table. Therefore, switching of the reading mode is automatically performed by utilizing such a property.

FIG. 49 is a drawing showing a reading apparatus provided with a mode detection sensor on its side. As shown in FIG. 49, a mode detection sensor is provided on each of the left and right sides on the side surface of the reading device. As the mode detection sensor, for example, an optical sensor that detects the amount of incident light can be used.

FIG. 50 shows a state in which the reading device provided with the mode detection sensor shown in FIG. 49 is installed on a desk. Basically, FIG. 50 is the same as FIG. 48 except for the presence or absence of the mode detection sensor. is there. In the case of the reader shown in FIG. 45, the right side (the side of the mode detection sensor L) as viewed from the front of the reader.
It is set on the table so that is facing up.

In the state shown in FIG. 50, since external light enters the mode detection sensor L, the amount of light received by the mode detection sensor L does not decrease. On the other hand, a mode detection sensor R (not shown)
Is in contact with the tabletop, so that the amount of received light decreases as compared with the mode detection sensor L. Therefore, by utilizing the relationship between the state of the reading device and the amount of light received by the mode detection sensor, the reading mode is switched to a reading mode suitable for the state of the reading device based on the amount of light received by the mode detection sensor.

FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing the control for switching the reading mode based on the mode detection sensor.

[0300] The control unit determines whether or not the reading device is installed on the table based on the amounts of light received by the two mode detection sensors. If it is determined that the reading device is set on the table (in this case, the amount of received light is low), the reading device is shifted to the multi-scan mode. When there is no change in the amount of light received by the mode detection sensor, the control unit shifts, for example, the reading device to the single scan mode.

As described above, the reading mode is automatically switched between when the reading device is set on the table and when the reading device is not set on the table (when hand-held reading is performed). There is no need to attach.

When reading a bar code while pressing the mode switch, the user may suddenly speak his / her hand from the mode switch. In this case, the reading mode is switched independently of the user's intention. In particular, if you release your hand from the switch during the single scan mode to read the barcode on the barcode menu and shift to the multiscan mode, there is a risk that barcodes other than the barcode to be read will be read There is. Since the barcode read incorrectly as such is also valid as data, the reading device recognizes that the barcode has been read normally and notifies the user of the result. If the user does not notice that the reading mode has been switched, if the processing is continued as it is, the erroneously input data is determined as input data as it is.

However, by automatically switching the reading mode according to the installation state of the reading device by the operation of the mode detection sensor, the user switches the reading mode to a reading mode different from his / her intention as described above. Can be prevented, and erroneous data input can be reduced as much as possible.

[0304] Note that the reading mode when the reading device is not installed on the desk may be either multi-scan or single-scan, and the reading mode desired by the user may be selected. Good. For example, even when used as a hand-held device, a suitable reading mode is different depending on whether the device is used as a touch device or a gun device. Therefore, by providing the reading device to which the mode detection sensor is attached with the mode selection switch described above, the reading mode when the reading device is held by hand can be switched by operating the mode selection switch.

FIG. 52 is a flowchart for explaining an example of reading mode switching control to cope with such a situation. When the control unit detects that there is no change in the amount of light received by the mode detection sensor, the control unit sets the reading mode to the single scan mode in correspondence with hand-held reading. Thereafter, the control unit constantly monitors the operation of the mode changeover switch. When the mode selection switch is not operated, the single scan mode is maintained. On the other hand, if it is detected that the user has intended to use the reading device as a gun-type device and the mode selection switch has been operated, the control unit switches the reading mode to the multi-scan mode and sets the bar code. Perform reading.

FIG. 53 is a modification of the reading apparatus shown in FIG. In the reader shown in FIG. 53, a detection switch such as a microswitch is provided instead of the optical mode detection sensor. When the reader shown in FIG. 53 is installed on a table as shown in FIG. 50, the detection switch on the side in contact with the table is pressed by the table.

FIG. 54 is a flow chart showing the control of the reading mode selection in the reading apparatus shown in FIG.

The control unit monitors the pressed state of the detection switch, determines that the reading device has been set on the table by pressing one of the detection switches, and shifts the reading mode to the multi-scan mode.

The reading mode in a state where the detection switch is not detected to be pressed is set to a reading mode desired by the user (for example, maintaining the multi-scan mode) as in the case of the reading apparatus shown in FIG. I just need. When the multi-scan mode is maintained, the mode is switched to the single scan mode by operating a mode selection switch or the like.

FIG. 55 is a view for explaining a mechanism for shifting the reading mode to the multi-scan mode when the apparatus is placed vertically on the stand. FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing the control of reading mode selection in the reading apparatus shown in FIG.

[0311] On the bottom surface of the reading device, a detection unit such as a microswitch is provided. A detection projection is provided on the bottom surface of the holder of the stand, and its position corresponds to the detection unit of the reader set on the stand.

When the reader is set on the stand, the detecting portion of the reader is pressed by the detecting projection. The control unit of the reading device monitors the state of the detecting unit, and when it is detected that the detecting unit is pressed, the reading unit determines that the reading device is installed on the stand and shifts the reading mode to the multi-scan mode. Let it.

When the detecting section is not pressed, the reading apparatus is considered to be used as a hand-held apparatus. The reading mode in this case can be a single scan or a multi-scan. Which one to select depends on the form in which the user uses the hand-held device, and may be set accordingly.

If the device is used as a gun-type reading device in many cases, the reading mode may be set to the multi-scan mode even when the device is used as a hand-held device. What should be done based on it.

Conversely, when the touch-type reading device is used more frequently, the reading mode may be set to the single scan mode when used as a hand-held device. When it needs to be used as a gun type device, operate the mode selection switch. In this case, the control unit shifts the reading mode from the single scan mode to the multi-scan mode, unlike the above-described configuration in which the mode selection switch is operated to shift to the single scan mode. When the mode selection switch is operated, the control unit shifts the reading mode to the multi-scan mode, and when the mode selection switch is not operated (when used as a handheld device), the control unit may set the single scan mode. .

FIG. 57 is a view for explaining a configuration for switching the reading mode when the reading device is set on the horizontal stand. FIG. 58 is a flowchart for explaining reading mode selection control in the reading apparatus shown in FIG.

In the case of FIG. 57, an optical mark such as a bar code for instructing the switching of the reading mode is arranged inside the wall surface of the horizontal stand facing the second reading window.

In the case where the reading device is used as a hand-held device, if the reading device is assumed to be used as a touch device, the reading device is set to the single scan mode.
In this state, the operation of the reading device is substantially disabled during the period in which the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window, and the barcode is read only during the period in which the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window. It can be carried out.

When the reading device is set on the horizontal stand in this state, the scanning light emitted from the second reading window scans a bar code arranged inside the stand. As a result, the bar code instructing the switching of the reading mode is read.

[0320] The control unit of the reading apparatus monitors whether a bar code is detected from the second reading window. When the control unit recognizes the read barcode and determines that the read barcode instructs switching of the reading mode, the control unit shifts the reading mode from the single scan mode to the multiscan mode, The bar code reading is also controlled during the period in which the scanning light is emitted from the reading window.

When the bar code of the horizontal stand is not detected, the control unit maintains the reading mode in the single scan mode. Further, even after shifting to the multi-scan mode, barcode reading by the scanning light emitted from the second reading window remains effective. Therefore, when the reading device is set on the horizontal stand, the scanning light emitted from the second reading window continues to scan the bar code for reading mode indication provided inside the stand.

When the reader is detached from the horizontal stand, the bar code indicating the reading mode provided inside the stand is no longer detected. Based on this, the control unit shifts the reading mode from the multi-scan mode to the single-scan mode again.

Thus, the reading mode can be automatically switched according to the attachment / detachment of the reading device from the horizontal stand. In order to shift to the multi-scan mode when used as a hand-held device, for example, a mode switch may be operated.

FIG. 59 is a view for explaining another mechanism for mode switching. In the case of FIG. 59, a grip sensor is provided on the back surface of the handle. Then, when the user grips the handle, this is detected by the grip sensor, and the detection result is notified to the control unit. As the grip sensor, for example, an electrostatic sensor is used.
Thus, when a person grips the handle, the capacitance changes, so that the reading mode can be switched. On the other hand, since the capacitance of the grip sensor does not change even when the grip sensor contacts the holder of the stand, the reading mode is not switched in this case.

FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing a reading mode selection control in the reading apparatus shown in FIG.

The control unit switches the reading mode when the grip sensor detects that the handle is being gripped. In this case, since it is considered to be used as a hand-held device, based on the detection result by the grip sensor,
The control unit shifts the reading mode to the single scan mode.

The attachment position of the grip sensor does not need to be limited to the back of the handle, but it is most efficient to provide the grip sensor at this position since the grip can be confirmed most on the back of the handle.

The switches, sensors, and the like for switching the reading mode described above are most desirably mounted at positions where there is no hindrance when the switches are mounted on the stand. In addition, those that are directly operated by the user should be mounted at a position where the operator can easily operate.

When a reading device is used as a touch-type device, it is important to bring a barcode on the locus of scanning light emitted from the second reading window in order to perform reading reliably. It is becoming. FIG. 61 illustrates an example of a reading apparatus that can notify a user of a position where a scanning line is scanning.

As described above, in the case of the conventional touch-type reader, since the entire barcode surface is illuminated by the LED, it is not necessary to precisely position the reading window.
However, in the case of the reading device according to the present embodiment, the barcode is scanned by a scanning line such as a laser beam even when used as a touch-type reading device. Therefore, if there is no barcode at the position where the scanning line passes, the barcode cannot be read, and the positioning of the reading window must be performed more strictly.

The cover is attached around the second reading window of the reading device as described above. By attaching scanning direction indication marks on the left and right sides of the cover to indicate the starting point and the ending point of the one-way scanning pattern, the user can check which position the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is scanning. Easier to do. The operation line passes on a line connecting the vertices of the triangle mark.

The touch-type reading device performs reading by bringing the reading window close to the barcode. In the case of the device as shown in FIG. 61, especially, the periphery of the second reading window is covered with a cover. It is difficult to directly visually recognize the barcode to be read, and it is difficult to confirm which position of the barcode the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is scanning.

However, by providing the mark as shown in FIG. 61 on the cover, it is possible to determine at least the scanning position of the scanning line emitted from the second reading window based on the mark. It is possible to confirm which part of the bar code is being scanned. Therefore, the bar code to be read can be surely read.

FIG. 62 is a drawing showing a modification of the reading apparatus shown in FIG. In FIG. 62, the LED display unit is attached at the position where the scanning direction instruction mark in FIG. 61 is attached. Compared to simply adding a mark,
Providing the LED light emitting section makes it easier for the user to visually recognize the mark, and makes it easier to confirm the scanning position of the scanning light. In particular, the apparatus of FIG. 62 is effective when the place where the reading apparatus is used is dark.

When reading a bar code menu, when the menu sheet is placed on a table, the reading device can be brought close to the bar code from almost directly above. Therefore, even if an LED display is provided on the back of the reading device. Easy to check the display. However, when the menu sheet is held in one hand and the reading device is gripped in the other hand, the side of the reading device faces the front of the user. This makes it difficult for the user to check the LED display on the back of the reading device. Even in such a case, by providing the LED display unit on the side surface of the reading device as shown in FIG. 62, the LED display can be easily recognized.

Here, by changing the display color of the LED display section between the normal state and when the bar code is read, the function of the display section for reading confirmation is changed to the LED shown in FIG. Can also be provided. And
It is possible for the user to confirm the reading simultaneously with the confirmation of the scanning position of the scanning light.

FIG. 63 is a view showing an example of another mechanism for allowing the user to recognize the scanning position of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window. In the case of FIG. 63, projections are provided at both ends of the second reading window to indicate the position and direction from which the scanning light is emitted. The projecting direction of the projection matches the direction in which the scanning light is emitted.

By bringing the two projections into contact with both ends of the bar code to be read, the scanning light emitted from the second reading window can surely scan the bar code to be read. Further, by using such a projection, it is not necessary to bring the barcode and the reading window close to each other, so that it is possible to prevent the barcode from being hidden behind the reading window. If the barcode is hidden behind the reading window, it is not possible to directly confirm which position of the barcode the scanning light is scanning, but in the case of the reading device of FIG. 63, such a problem does not occur. The state in which the barcode is being scanned can be directly visually recognized.

In the case of the reading apparatus shown in FIG. 63, since the bar code to be read by the second reading window is located at the tip of the projection, the focal position of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is the projection. It is desirable to be near the tip of the part.

FIG. 64 shows still another example for allowing the user to confirm the scanning position of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window.

In the apparatus shown in FIG. 64, a mountain-shaped projection is provided near both ends of a cover provided around the second reading device. The chevron has the same meaning as the mark shown in FIG. 61, and is emitted from the second reading window by positioning both ends of the barcode to be read at the position of the chevron. The scanning light can surely scan the barcode. Also in the case of FIG. 64, it is possible to prevent the bar code to be read from being hidden behind the reading window.

FIG. 65 is a view for explaining a mechanism for preventing the bar code to be read from being hidden behind the reading window. In the reading device shown in FIG. 65, the mounting position of the second reading window is set to a position one step lower than that in the case of FIG. 60 and the like, and the interval between the reading window and the barcode is kept appropriate. Transparent cover is attached to the front of the reading window.

Since the reading window is provided at a position one step lower, the bar code can be visually recognized from the back of the reading device even when the reading device is brought close to the bar code surface. Since the barcode can be visually recognized directly, it is possible to directly and easily check which position of the barcode is being scanned. Also, when reading a barcode, the barcode is brought into contact with the surface of the transparent cover.By attaching the transparent cover, the barcode and the reading window can be kept at an appropriate distance, and the barcode can be read. It is possible to prevent the bar code from being viewed from the back side of the reading device and obstruction of confirmation of the scanning position due to too close the reading device.

If the transparent cover is removable and replaceable, even if the front surface of the transparent cover is damaged by contact with the bar code, the influence of the damage can be eliminated by replacement.

FIG. 66 is a diagram illustrating reading of a bar code menu. As shown in FIG. 66, the cover around the reading window is provided with a chevron-shaped projection, and an appropriate distance is set between the barcode and the reading window (between the chevron-shaped protrusions). The scanning position is easy to visually recognize.

[0346] The back surface of the reading device has a shape having an inclination. If the back surface of the reading device is angular, the angular portion interferes and makes it difficult to visually recognize the barcode and the scanning position. However, by inclining the back surface of the reading device as shown in FIG. 66, even when hand-held reading is performed, there is nothing obstructing the visual recognition of the barcode / scanning position, and the position can be easily confirmed.

FIG. 67 is a modification of the reading apparatus shown in FIG. The back surface of the reader illustrated in FIG.
A recess is formed. By providing the concave portion, it is possible to more easily confirm the barcode and the scanning position from the back of the reading device.

FIG. 68 is a view for explaining the confirmation of the barcode position / scanning position when reading the barcode menu. A slope is formed on the back surface of the reading device shown in FIG. The inclination direction is set to the same (substantially the same) angle as the emission angle of the scanning light from the second reading window. In addition, since both ends of the cover portion of the second reading window may be projections, the line of sight of the operator is not disturbed by the reading window of the reading device and the operator can easily set the barcode position / scanning position. You can check.

The scanning light from the second reading window passes through the position of the scanning position display mark provided on the side surface of the cover and is emitted. Therefore, by arranging the barcode on the extension of the scanning position display mark, the barcode can be surely scanned.

Further, as is clear from the top view of FIG.
In order to facilitate alignment between the direction of the barcode and the reader, the leading end of the reader is formed in a straight line. Since this direction corresponds to the scanning direction of the scanning line emitted from the second reading window, scanning can be performed through the barcode when the direction of the barcode is adjusted to this linear portion, and reading is performed more reliably. be able to.

In FIG. 68, for reference, a scanning range by multidirectional scanning light emitted from the first reading window is also shown. In this case, it can be seen that a wide area is scanned as compared with the scanning light emitted from the second reading window.

Here, in the reading device shown in FIG. 68,
The reason why the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is not emitted perpendicularly to the reading surface will be described.

FIG. 69a is a view showing a state where the scanning light is emitted perpendicular to the bar code. Since the scanning light is incident on the bar code in the vertical direction, the scanning light is almost directly reflected on the bar code surface, and the amount of light reflected by the reading device from the bar code becomes very large. Here, when used as a touch-type reading device, since the distance between the reading window and the barcode is short, the light amount of the scanning light applied to the barcode itself is large. Therefore, if the scanning light is irradiated perpendicularly to the barcode in such a reading mode, the amount of reflected light is too large, so that it is difficult to detect the brightness of the barcode, and the barcode cannot be read. there's a possibility that.

In the case of a conventional touch-type device that illuminates a barcode with an LED, the above problem does not occur because the amount of light illuminating the barcode is not so large. In this case, since the barcode is scanned by the laser beam, the amount of reflected light from the barcode is much larger than that of a touch-type device using an LED.

Therefore, in the reading device shown in FIG. 68, the emission direction of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is
It is not perpendicular to the barcode surface. When the scanning light is emitted at such an angle, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 2, since the scanning light is irregularly reflected on the bar code surface, the amount of reflected light received by the reading device is smaller than that when the scanning light is emitted in the vertical direction. Since the distance between the bar code and the reader is extremely small, this reduction in the amount of reflected light has no adverse effect on bar code reading.

As described above, by emitting the scanning light for reading an adjacent bar code, which is emitted from the second reading window in the direction shown in FIG. 68, the reflected light amount of the bar code is increased. It is possible to prevent the light amount from becoming excessive, and to obtain the optimum light amount for detecting the barcode.

FIG. 70 is a side sectional view of the reading apparatus according to the present embodiment.

A printed circuit board provided with a control unit for controlling the apparatus is provided inside the reading apparatus. The printed circuit board extends from the head to the rear end of the handle. An interface cable connected to an external device is attached to one end of the printed circuit board.

[0359] A laser light source, a condensing mirror, a polygon mirror, a multi-beam stationary mirror, a single-beam stationary mirror, a condenser sensor, and the like are provided inside the head unit of the reader. Here, the multi-beam stationary mirror is shown in FIG.
, And the single beam stationary mirror corresponds to the floor mirror E8 in FIG. The other components correspond to those shown in FIG.

Each fixed mirror is mounted on an optical frame. The optical frame is attached to a cover of the reading device via a buffer 2. Since the reading device according to the present embodiment is also used as a hand-held device, there is a possibility that the reading device may be subjected to an impact when reading a barcode or when attaching or detaching the reading device to / from a stand. If this impact is transmitted to the optical system of the reader, the position of the optical system may be shifted or damaged.
Therefore, in the reading device shown in FIG. 63, the optical frame in which the optical system is arranged is attached to the cover of the reading device via a buffer so that the shock applied to the reading device is not transmitted to the optical system.

Here, the motor that drives the polygon mirror is particularly vulnerable to impact. If an impact is applied, the bearing may be damaged, generating noise when the motor rotates, or in the worst case, the motor may not move. . Therefore, the polygon mirror is further attached to the optical frame via a motor cushion. By the action of the motor cushion, the impact applied to the motor can be further reduced in addition to the effect of reducing the impact by the cushioning material.

Although not clearly shown in FIG. 70, a light-collecting sensor, a laser light source, a light-collecting mirror, and the like are also mounted on the optical frame. The optical frame is attached to the reading device main body via cushioning materials 1 and 2. These cushioning members are used to prevent vibrations, particularly when the reader is held by hand, from being transmitted to the optical system.

FIG. 71 shows an optical frame and components constituting an optical system mounted on the optical frame. FIG. 72 and FIG. 75 are views showing a state where each optical component is mounted on the optical frame of FIG.

The optical frame is integrally formed of, for example, resin. The optical frame has eight floor mirrors, a focusing mirror, a laser light source, a light receiving sensor, a polygon mirror (polygon motor), and a cushioning material.
A motor cushion is attached.

Each reflecting surface of the polygon mirror is attached to each surface of a base having a trapezoidal cross section. In addition,
The polygon mirror may be integrally formed of resin and a reflection film may be deposited on each reflection surface.

[0366] The base of the polygon mirror is fitted on the rotating shaft of a motor mounted on a substrate. A lead wire to which a signal for driving a motor or the like is supplied is attached to one end of the substrate. The polygon motor is mounted on the optical frame with a motor cushion interposed therebetween. The polygon motor is screwed to the optical frame via a screw hole formed in the substrate.

The light receiving sensor is mounted on the board. A control unit for controlling the light receiving sensor is mounted on the substrate. The screw holes formed in the substrate on which the light receiving sensor is mounted are located at positions corresponding to the screw holes provided in the optical frame, and are screwed to the optical frame.

The laser diode (laser light source) is fixed to the mounting member with two screws. The mounting member to which the laser diode is mounted is further screwed to a mounting plate provided on a side surface of the optical frame, and the laser diode is fixed to the optical frame. The emission direction of the laser light emitted from the laser diode is directed to a small reflecting mirror attached to the central part of the focusing mirror.

[0369] On the bottom surface of the optical frame, a surface to which each floor mirror is attached is formed. The numbers attached to the bottom correspond to the numbers (E1 E8) of the floor mirrors, and each floor mirror is attached to this position.

[0370] The focusing mirror is supported at both ends thereof with respect to the optical frame. In addition, three shafts are attached to both ends of the condensing mirror, and are fitted in holes provided in the first metal fitting and the second metal fitting, respectively. The light collecting mirror attached to the metal fitting is fitted into the optical frame.

FIG. 76 is an enlarged view of the condenser mirror. The shafts 1 and 2 are respectively mounted on the left and right sides of the condenser mirror, and are arranged on the same axis. Axis 1, axis 2
Is the rotation axis of the condenser mirror. The shaft 3 is provided below the shaft 2 on the side where the shaft 2 is provided.

FIG. 77 is a drawing showing the condensing mirror attached to the first and second metal fittings and the portion where the condensing mirror of the optical frame is attached. A slit (first hole) provided in a horizontal direction is formed on a first wall surface of the optical frame. The second wall of the optical frame is provided with a second hole and a third hole formed in a shape that draws an arc around the second hole.

The first hole of the condenser mirror is fitted into the first hole. Also, the second and third axes of the condenser mirror are fitted into the second and third holes of the optical frame, respectively.

Here, since the first hole of the optical frame is an elongated hole extending in the horizontal direction, the side of the light collecting mirror where the first shaft is provided extends in the front-rear direction while being attached to the optical frame. Can be moved. In addition, the second hole is simply fitted with the second axis of the focusing mirror, but the third hole of the optical frame is formed in an arc shape centered on the second hole, so The side of the optical mirror on which the second and third shafts are provided can be rotated in the front-rear direction with the second shaft as a fulcrum.

By adopting such a configuration, by moving the side on which the first axis of the focusing mirror is provided, the focusing mirror can be moved in the front-back direction.
The horizontal mounting position of the condenser mirror is adjusted. Also,
By rotating the side on which the second and third axes of the focusing mirror are provided, the reflecting surface of the focusing mirror can be tilted in the vertical direction, and the tilting position of the focusing mirror in the vertical direction can be adjusted. be able to.

In the converging mirror provided in the conventional reader, the converging mirror is fixed to an elastic member (metal plate) or the like, and an adjusting screw attached to the back of the frame is screwed in. The angle of the focusing mirror was adjusted. With such a configuration, no space can be created between the light-collecting three blades and the frame.

On the other hand, in the reading device according to the present embodiment, since the scanning light reflected by the floor mirror E8 must be emitted toward the second reading window, the scanning light passes behind the light collecting mirror. It is necessary to provide space for
However, in the conventional method of attaching the light collecting mirror, a sufficient space for allowing the scanning light to pass therethrough cannot be provided behind the light collecting mirror.

In the case of the condenser mirror shown in FIG. 76, both ends of the condenser mirror are attached to the optical frame, so that a sufficient space can be provided behind the optical frame. Furthermore, since the position adjustment of the focusing mirror is also performed by moving both ends of the focusing mirror, a mechanism for fixing the focusing mirror and a mechanism for adjusting the position of the focusing mirror can be shared. Thus, the number of components can be reduced, and the space around the light collecting mirror can be reduced.

The first and second metal fittings are provided with long holes, and the first and second metal fittings are screwed into the screw holes provided in the optical frame to adjust the position of the condensed light. The mirror can be fixed.

FIG. 72 shows the optical frame in a state where each component is mounted. Here, the floor mirror E8 is hidden by the shadow of the condenser mirror, and similarly, the polygon mirror is shadowed of the substrate on which the light receiving sensor is mounted. By mounting all the optical components on the optical frame in this manner, the optical system can be unitized, and the effect of absorbing shock transmitted to the optical system by using the cushioning material can be enhanced.

FIG. 73 FIG. 75 is a drawing showing an optical frame on which optical components and the like are mounted as viewed in three directions, similarly to FIG. 73. In the case of FIG. 75, the polygon mirror, the light receiving sensor and the like are not shown. In particular, as is apparent from the top view, the scanning light from the floor mirror E8 and the reflected light incident from the bar code toward the floor mirror E8 pass between the trailing edge of the optical frame and the condenser mirror. Space is provided.

[0382] On the side surface of the optical frame, cushioning members each having a circular cross section are attached to the left and right sides. This cushioning material has a shape in which the center of a large circular member is connected by a small circular member. A slit provided in the cover of the reading device main body is inserted into the gap between the great circle portions. Thus, the optical frame is not directly attached to the cover, and the shock applied to the reader is absorbed by the cushioning material. FIG. 73
Although not shown in FIG. 75, cushioning materials are also attached to the periphery of the optical frame, and these cushioning materials intervene at the contact surface between the optical frame and the cover of the reading device main body to absorb shock.

[0383] The head of the reader is further provided with a multi-beam exit (first reading window) and a single-beam exit (second reading window). The emission direction of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is not set to the vertical direction,
The single beam exit is angled, and the mounting angle of the single beam stationary mirror is defined so that the scanning light is emitted in this direction. Then, as shown in FIG. 70, when the cover is applied to the barcode surface, the tip of the cover is formed so that the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is not emitted perpendicular to the barcode. I do.

[0384] A printed circuit board on which a control unit for controlling the operation of the entire apparatus is mounted behind the optical system provided inside the reading apparatus (right side in the figure). An interface cable connected to an external device is attached to one end of the printed circuit board.

[0385] Switches A and B are mounted on the back of the reading device. The switch B corresponds to the mode selection switch described above, and has a switch plate. The switch A is used for switching other functions.

The reading apparatus shown in FIG. 70 is set on a stand as described above, and is used as a stationary apparatus. In particular, if the reader is set vertically and the center of gravity of the reader is on the top, the holding unit on which the reader is set will try to rotate due to the weight of the reader,
The direction of the reading window of the reading device set on the stand is not stable.

Therefore, the reading device according to the present embodiment is
Its center of gravity is as low as possible. In particular, it is desirable that the center of gravity be the handle.

In order to make the position of the center of gravity as low as possible in the drawing, in the reading apparatus according to the present embodiment, the polygon mirror is arranged so as to be below the stationary mirror. Since the motor that drives the polygon mirror is the heaviest in the reading apparatus, the position of the center of gravity can be lowered by arranging this motor as low as possible.

However, since the handle needs to have a certain length and the motor for driving the polygon motor can be accommodated only in the head, even if the polygon mirror and the motor are arranged below the head, the center of gravity moves. Cannot be performed sufficiently. Therefore, in the reading device shown in FIG. 70, a weight for lowering the position of the center of gravity is placed in the handle. Since there is a space inside the grip, by attaching a weight inside this space, the center of gravity of the reader can be lowered as much as possible, and the orientation of the reading window can be stabilized even when the reader is set on the stand. Can be.

If the center of gravity is at a high position, the head portion may feel unnecessarily heavy when gripping the handle.
However, by moving the center of gravity of the reader to the handle side as much as possible, the user does not feel that the head portion is heavy even when gripping the handle of the reader, so that the reader can be stably held. it can.

FIG. 78 is a view showing an example of a reading apparatus in which the pattern of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is modified. In the reading apparatus shown in FIG. 78, a plurality of scanning lights (two in FIG. 78) whose scanning directions are parallel to each other and whose emission angles are slightly different are emitted from the second reading window. By configuring the scanning pattern emitted from the second window with a plurality of scanning lights in this manner, even if the position of the barcode brought to the reading window surface is slightly shifted, the barcode is scanned by any one of the scanning lights. Can be scanned, and the bar code alignment does not require much nerves.

In order to generate such a plurality of scanning beams, the scanning beams reflected by the plurality of reflecting surfaces of the polygon mirrors having different inclination angles are incident on the single beam stationary mirror. do it. When the inclination angle of the reflection surface of the polygon mirror is different, the incident angle of the scanning light to the single beam stationary mirror changes, and the difference in the incident angle causes the difference in the emission direction of the scanning light.

For example, in the case of FIGS. 3 and 4, the scanning light incident on the floor mirror E8 (corresponding to a single beam stationary mirror) is only reflected by the fourth reflecting surface of the polygon mirror. The scanning light emitted from the two reading windows is only one. However, if the scanning light reflected by the other reflecting surface is also incident on the floor mirror E8, the number of scanning lights emitted from the second reading window can be increased accordingly.

FIG. 79 shows a modification of the reading apparatus shown in FIG. 78, in which scanning light emitted from the second reading window is scanned in a raster manner. FIG. 80 is a side sectional view of the reading apparatus for realizing the raster scanning shown in FIG. 79, and is basically the same as that shown in FIG. FIG. 81 is a flowchart showing control for switching to raster scanning.

In the reading device shown in FIG. 80, a mirror drive actuator is attached below the single beam mirror. The operation of the mirror drive actuator is controlled by a control unit (not shown), and when driven, the single beam mirror moves back and forth. By adjusting the scanning timing of the scanning light by the polygon mirror and the driving timing of the mirror driving actuator, the scanning light emitted from the second reading window draws a raster-like scanning trajectory as shown in FIG.

More specifically, when the reading mode is the single scan mode, the control unit drives the mirror driving actuator. The driving timing is between the time when the scanning by one scanning line is completed and the next scanning is started, and the driving amount changes depending on the interval of the parallel pattern.

In the case of the reader shown in FIG. 79,
The same effect as that of the reader shown in FIG. 78 can be obtained. When it is necessary to read a so-called two-dimensional barcode using the scanning light emitted from the second reading window, it is necessary to scan the two-dimensional barcode in the horizontal and vertical directions. When reading such a two-dimensional bar code, it is very effective to scan the scanning light emitted from the second reading window in a raster shape as shown in FIG.

As described above, it is desirable that the position of the focal point of the scanning light be near the position of the bar code to be read. When reading a barcode with the second reading window, the focal position of the scanning light is near the second reading window because the barcode is very close to the reading window. On the other hand, the scanning light emitted from the first reading window is set at a position distant from the reading window in the reading mode.

The scanning light emitted from the first reading window and the scanning light emitted from the second reading window are generated by the same optical system. It is difficult. Although it is possible to some extent by changing the length of the optical path corresponding to each scanning light in the reading device, the length of the optical path cannot be largely changed in view of the recent demand for downsizing the reading device.

Also, it is necessary to change the reading depth (distance in the front-rear direction at which the barcode can be read) by the scanning light emitted from the first and second reading windows, respectively.

When reading a barcode with the first reading window, it is necessary to stereoscopically widen the reading range.
It is necessary to increase the reading depth of the scanning light emitted from the first reading window.

On the other hand, when reading a barcode menu using the second reading window, it is necessary to prevent reading of barcodes other than the barcode to be read.
However, if the reading depth of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window is deep, the bar code recorded on the menu sheet (the bar code not to be read) is moved while the reading device is moved on the menu sheet. Code). Therefore, the reading depth of the scanning light emitted from the second reading window must be shallow.

To reduce the reading depth, it is possible to cope with this by widening or converging the emitted scanning light. On the other hand, in order to bring the focal position closer to the reading window,
It is necessary to reduce the emitted scanning light.

Therefore, in the reading device shown in FIG. 82, a beam shaping lens is attached near the second reading window. This beam shaping lens is a convex cylindrical lens, and narrows the scanning light in the vertical direction in the figure.
No beam diameter is formed in the horizontal direction (corresponding to the scanning direction). By using such a beam shaping lens, the focal position of the scanning light can be made closer to the second reading window, and the reading depth of the scanning light can be further reduced.

Here, the reason for using a cylindrical lens for the beam shaping lens will be described.

In particular, when the beam diameter in the direction perpendicular to the scanning direction is small, if the printed bar code is chipped as shown in FIG. 83A, the bar width of the read bar code is erroneously recognized. May be done. In other words, in the case of FIG. 83a, the bar 1 should originally have the width a, but if a portion with a chip is scanned, the reading device recognizes that the bar 1 has the width b, and the bar code can be read correctly. Disappears.

If the beam diameter is extended in the direction perpendicular to the scanning direction, it is possible to scan a portion where the scanning light is not missing, as shown in FIG. 83B. In the reading device, since the barcode is detected based on the overall light amount of the portion scanned by the scanning light, in the case of FIG. 83B, even if the bar 1 is chipped, the reading device must have the width a. Can be recognized.

As described above, by increasing the beam diameter in the direction perpendicular to the scanning direction, it is possible to prevent erroneous reading due to chipping of the bar as shown in FIG. 83A.

On the other hand, if the beam diameter is increased in the scanning direction, the bar 1 and the bar 2 are simultaneously irradiated by the scanning light as shown in FIG. 83C.
And bar 2 cannot be distinguished. for that reason,
The beam diameter must not be increased in the scanning direction.

For this reason, a cylindrical lens is used as a beam shaping lens.

FIG. 84 is a modification of the reading apparatus shown in FIG. 84, the floor mirror E8 is a cylindrical concave mirror instead of using a cylindrical convex lens. In this case, the floor mirror E8 performs the same operation as the cylindrical convex lens, so that the focal position of the scanning light can be made closer to the second reading window and the reading depth of the scanning light can be reduced.

By using such a cylindrical convex lens and a concave mirror, it is possible to change the reception of the reflected light from the bar code according to the distance of the bar code.

For example, when a cylindrical concave mirror is used, the reflected light from the bar code is condensed by the cylindrical concave mirror. Here, the focal position of the light reflected by the cylindrical concave mirror changes according to the distance between the cylindrical concave mirror and the bar code. Therefore, when reading the barcode with the second reading window, the reflected light condensed by the cylindrical concave mirror (+ condensing mirror) is focused on the light receiving sensor surface when the barcode is at the optimum reading position. I do.

With this configuration, the reflected light from the bar code located at a position distant from the second reading window is not focused on the light receiving surface of the light receiving sensor, and is out of focus.
Therefore, the reflected light from the barcode at a position distant from the second reading window cannot be recognized by the reading device, and the reading depth can be substantially reduced.

As another method of adjusting the reading depth,
A method of changing the amount of scanning light can be considered. When the light amount of the scanning light is small, the light amount reflected from the bar code located at a position distant from the reading window is small, and the reading device cannot detect the reflected light. On the other hand, if the light amount of the scanning light is increased, it is possible to read a barcode located at a position away from the reading window by an amount corresponding to the increased light amount.

[0416] Therefore, the light amount of the scanning light is increased during the period in which the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window. Further, during the period in which the scanning light is emitted from the second reading window, the light amount of the scanning light is reduced. The degree of the light quantity change may be set according to the desired reading depth. With this configuration, the reading depth of the scanning light emitted from each reading window can be substantially adjusted without using an optical component such as a lens.

As a method for grasping the reading window from which the scanning light is emitted, a method similar to the method shown in FIG. 29 and FIG. 32 may be applied.

Here, it is important to inform the user of the reading device whether the reading device is in the single scan mode or the multi-scan mode. In particular, when a barcode is read, the user is notified that the barcode was read in the single scan mode, thereby notifying the user that the barcode to be read in the single scan mode has been read in the multiscan mode. can do.

[0419] For example, it is assumed that the reading apparatus can be switched to the single scan mode by pressing the mode selection switch. In this case, it is necessary to switch the reading mode to the single scan mode in order to read the barcode menu. Therefore, the user brings the reading device closer to the barcode to be read while pressing the mode selection switch.
However, in the case of a device in which the reading mode switches to the multi-scan mode when the user releases the mode selection switch, if the user inadvertently releases the hand from the mode selection switch, the reading mode is set by the user. It may change even though you haven't.

[0420] In such a case, the possibility that the bar code which is not to be read is scanned and read increases due to the scanning pattern emitted from the first reading window. Since all barcodes recorded on the menu sheet are valid, even if the reading mode is changed and a barcode other than the desired barcode is read, the reading device can normally read the barcode. The result of the barcode reading is reported as being performed.

At this time, if it is possible to inform the user which reading mode the reading device is in, or in which reading mode the bar code was read, the notified bar code can be read by himself / herself. The user can be notified of whether or not the bar code is valid, and if necessary, invalidate the input bar code data and re-read the desired bar code.

FIG. 85 is a functional block diagram of a reading device for making such a notification. The control unit controls the operation of the entire reading apparatus, and is connected to a mode selection switch, a laser light source, a light receiving circuit, and the like. Also, an LED for notifying the user of a barcode reading state,
Speakers and the like are also connected.

FIG. 86 is a flowchart showing display control of an LED for notifying a user of a reading mode in which a bar code has been read in the reading apparatus of FIG.

[0424] The control unit first recognizes the set reading mode. When the set reading mode is the single scan mode, the display control indicating the single scan mode is selected. On the other hand, when the set reading mode is the multi-scan mode,
The control unit selects display control indicating the multi-scan mode. Then, for example, when the barcode is normally read, the LED is turned on based on the selected display control.

Here, it is desirable that the display indicating the single scan mode and the display indicating the multi-scan mode are distinguished at a glance.

FIG. 87 is a flowchart showing the control of the sound of the speaker for notifying the user of the reading mode in which the bar code has been read in the reading apparatus of FIG. 85.

The control unit first recognizes the set reading mode. If the set reading mode is the single scan mode, the sound control that indicates the single scan mode is selected. On the other hand, when the set reading mode is the multi-scan mode,
The control unit selects the ringing control indicating the multi-scan mode. Then, for example, when the bar code is normally read, the speaker is driven based on the selected sound control to generate a sound.

Here, it is desirable that the ringing indicating the single scan mode and the ringing indicating the multi-scan mode be distinguished at a glance.

FIG. 88 is a diagram for explaining the reading mode.
5 is a flowchart showing control for changing the length of a sound between a single scan mode and a multi-scan mode. Here, the ringing sound is particularly long in the single scan mode, and is short in the multiscan mode.

The control unit first recognizes the set reading mode. If the set reading mode is the single scan mode, the control unit sets the ringing sound to a long one. On the other hand, when the set reading mode is the multi-scan mode, the control unit sets the ringing sound to a short one.

Thereafter, every time the bar code is read,
The control unit drives the speaker based on the set length of sound to generate a sound.

FIG. 89 is a flowchart showing the control for changing the volume of the sound in accordance with the read mode set differently from FIG. Particularly in the case of FIG. 89, the ringing sound is set large in the single scan mode, and set small in the multiscan mode.

The control unit first recognizes the set reading mode. If the set reading mode is the single scan mode, the control unit sets the sound volume to a large sound volume. On the other hand, if the set reading mode is the multi-scan mode, the control unit sets the sound volume to a low level.

Thereafter, every time the bar code is read,
The control unit drives the speaker based on the set length of sound to generate a sound.

FIG. 90 is a flow chart showing control for changing the number of times the speaker rings in accordance with the set reading mode.

The control unit recognizes the set reading mode. When the reading mode is the single scan mode, the number of sounds is set to that for the single scan mode (for example, one).

On the other hand, in the case of the set reading mode or multi-scan mode, the control section sets the number of sounds to that for the multi-scan mode (for example, three times).

Then, each time the bar code is read thereafter, the control unit causes the speaker to sound a set number of times.

FIG. 91 is a flowchart showing the control for changing the pitch of the sound of the speaker according to the reading mode. Particularly in the case of FIG. 91, the ringing sound is raised in the single scan mode.

The control unit first recognizes the reading mode.
When the single scan mode is set, the control unit sets the ringing sound to a high sound.

On the other hand, when the set reading mode is the multi-scan mode, the control unit sets the ringing sound to a low sound.

Then, every time the bar code is read thereafter, the control unit causes the speaker to sound at the set sound sound pitch.

FIG. 92 is a flowchart showing control for notifying the user of the currently set reading mode using the LED display unit. Here, a case will be described in which the LED is blinked and lit in the single scan mode, and the LED is continuously lit in the multiscan mode.

First, when the reading mode is selected, the control unit recognizes this. Then, when the single scan mode is selected, the blinking and lighting control of the LED is selected, and the LE mode is selected.
D is turned on and off. On the other hand, when the multi-scan mode is selected, the control unit selects the continuous lighting control and
Turn on the ED continuously.

Note that the switching of the LED lighting control is performed in accordance with FIG.
This is performed in conjunction with the switching of the multi-scan mode / single scan mode of the reading mode described in 4 and the like. That is, when the multi-scan mode is selected, the control unit switches the lighting control of the LED to continuous lighting, and performs the multi-scan mode, that is, the reading operation during the period when the scanning light is emitted from the first reading window. Control to enable is also performed.

By using such a method, it is possible to notify the user of the type of the reading mode set at that time, and to read an erroneous bar code (reading without selecting a reading mode to be selected). Etc.) can be prevented. Further, in particular, when a method of notifying the reading mode regardless of the reading result is used, it is possible to inform the user that the operation of the mode selection switch is necessary.

Note that the method of displaying the LED is blinking /
In addition to continuous lighting, there is a method of changing the display color of the LED.

In the case where the ringing sound is changed, the sounding interval may be changed according to the reading mode.

The reading apparatus in which the first reading window and the second reading window are independent windows has been described above. However, as shown in FIG. May be separated into a first area from which the scanning pattern is emitted and a second area from which scanning light suitable for reading a barcode menu is emitted. FIG.
In the case of No. 3, a mark indicating the second area is provided around the area, so that the user can confirm from which position the scanning light is emitted. Of course, the reading window surface does not need to be marked,
If a scanning pattern suitable for each reading mode is emitted, the object of the invention can be sufficiently achieved.

Also, in the embodiment described so far, the scanning pattern is emitted from each of the first reading area and the second reading area. When a single scan is performed, only a specific scanning line may be selected from the multi-scan pattern, and barcode reading may be enabled only during a period in which the scanning line is emitted. In the case of the scan pattern shown in FIG. 5, since the scan pattern E1 is scanned in the horizontal direction, only the scan pattern E1 is used in the single scan mode.

In this case, the floor mirror E8 and the second reading window need not be provided in the reading device, and the scanning pattern E8 shown in FIG. 5 does not exist. Further, the configuration of the optical system may be only the floor mirrors E1 and E5 as shown in FIG. 94, and the area for installing the reading window in the reading apparatus can be reduced as shown in FIG. When the specific scanning line is a scanning line reflected by the floor mirror E1, the bar code reading is enabled only during the scanning of the floor mirror E1 in the single scan mode (light source lighting / light receiving circuit activation / demodulation operation). Activation, etc.).

The determination as to whether or not the polygon mirror is scanning the floor mirror E1 may use the slit of the polygon mirror shown in FIG. 29 and thereafter. The configuration for validating the bar code reading only during the period when the floor mirror E1 is scanning may be performed in the same manner as described above.

In the description so far, the reading mode is switched only while the mode selection switch is kept depressed, and the reading mode is restored when the hand is released from the mode selection switch. However, the mode selection switch is not limited to this configuration, and the reading mode may be switched each time the mode selection switch is pressed (it is not necessary to continue pressing).

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view of a reading apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective perspective view and a side sectional view of a reading device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a direction in which scanning light is emitted by the first and third reflecting surfaces;

FIG. 4 is an emission direction of scanning light by a fourth reflection surface;

FIG. 5 illustrates a scanning pattern emitted by a reading device according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a scanning pattern on a reading window surface.

FIG. 7 shows a scanning pattern at a position distant from a reading window surface.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a reading mode of a reading apparatus according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of the reader.

FIG. 10 is a four-sided view of the reading device of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 shows a state in which the reading device of FIG. 9 is set on a stand.

FIG. 12 shows a state in which the reading device of FIG. 9 is used by hand.

FIG. 13 shows a state in which a bar code menu is read by the reading device of FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 shows a configuration for lighting a plurality of display units with a single light source.

FIG. 15 is a stand on which a reading device is set.

FIG. 16 is a three-sided view of a stand according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a four-sided view of a stand on which the reading device is set.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a rotation range of a stand holding unit.

FIG. 19 shows a plate provided on the bottom surface of the base of the stand.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a plate mounted on a wall surface.

FIG. 21 shows a state in which the stand is mounted on a wall.

FIG. 22 is a side sectional view of the stand attached to a wall surface.

FIG. 23: Tilt mechanism of the stand

FIG. 24: Horizontal stand and stand body

FIG. 25 is a horizontal stand on which a reading device is set;

FIG. 26 is a horizontal stand on which a reading device is set when the handles are placed on the left and right.

FIG. 27: Vertical Stand

FIG. 28 Horizontal stand

FIG. 29 is a polygon mirror provided with a mechanism for checking a scanning position.

FIG. 30 shows a relationship between a sensor output and a mirror position detection signal.

FIG. 31 is a block diagram of a reading device.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart for performing light source lighting control according to a floor mirror on which scanning light is scanned (read mode switching).

FIG. 34 shows output signal waveforms (time charts) of various parts of the reading device during light source lighting control.

FIG. 35 shows a mode selection switch provided on the back of the reading device.

FIG. 36 shows a state in which a mode selection switch is operated with a forefinger.

FIG. 37 shows a state in which a mode selection switch is operated with a thumb.

FIG. 38: Switch plate and switch

FIG. 39 shows the pressed position of the switch plate and the pivot point.

FIG. 40 is a reading device provided with a switch on the front surface of a handle.

FIG. 41 is a reader provided with a side switch.

FIG. 42 is a timing chart of light receiving circuit control according to the position of a floor mirror scanned by scanning light.

FIG. 43 is a flowchart showing a light receiving circuit control procedure.

FIG. 44 is a flowchart showing a demodulation operation control procedure;

FIG. 45 is a side sectional view of the reading device in which the floor mirror E1 ′ is movable.

FIG. 46 shows a light source control of the reading apparatus of FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure in the reading device in which the floor mirror is movable.

FIG. 48 shows a reading device placed horizontally on a desk;

FIG. 49 is a reading device provided with a mode detection sensor on a side surface.

FIG. 50 illustrates a state in which a reading device to which a mode detection sensor is attached is placed on a desk.

FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure based on a mode detection sensor;

FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure using a mode selection switch and a mode detection sensor together;

FIG. 53 is a reading device provided with a detection switch on a side surface;

FIG. 54 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure by a mode detection switch;

FIG. 55: A reading device in which a detection protrusion is provided on the bottom surface of a stand and a detection unit is provided on a handle

FIG. 56 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure by the reading apparatus of FIG. 55;

FIG. 57 shows a reading mode switching mark provided on the horizontal stand.

FIG. 58 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure based on a mark.

FIG. 59 is a reader including a grip sensor.

FIG. 60 is a flowchart showing a reading mode switching procedure by the grip sensor.

FIG. 61 is a reading device provided with a scanning direction instruction mark.

FIG. 62: a reading device having an LED display unit on the side surface

FIG. 63 is a reading device provided with a scanning position indicating protrusion;

FIG. 64: a reading device provided with a scanning position display projection on a cover unit.

FIG. 65 illustrates a reading device including a transparent cover.

FIG. 66: a reading device in which a notch is provided in a cover portion

FIG. 67: a reading device having a concave surface on the back surface

FIG. 68 is a view showing the scanning line emission direction and the back surface of the reading device.

FIG. 69: Relationship between incidence and reflection of scanning light on a barcode surface

FIG. 70 is a side sectional view of a reading device;

FIG. 71: Optical frame and optical parts

FIG. 72 is an optical frame on which each component is mounted.

FIG. 73 is an optical frame on which components are mounted.

FIG. 74: Optical frame on which components are mounted

FIG. 75: Optical frame on which components are mounted

FIG. 76: Condensing mirror

FIG. 77: Attachment to a focusing mirror and an optical frame

FIG. 78 illustrates a reading device that outputs a parallel scanning pattern from a second reading window.

FIG. 79 is a reading device that emits a raster scanning pattern from a second reading window.

FIG. 80 is a side cross-sectional view of a reading device in which a floor mirror is driven.

FIG. 81 is a flowchart showing an actuator driving procedure.

FIG. 82 is a side cross-sectional view of a reading device that condenses scanning light emitted from the second reading window.

FIG. 83: Beam Diameter and Barcode Reading

FIG. 84 shows another example of the reading device that collects the scanning light emitted from the second reading window.

FIG. 85 is a block diagram of a reading device.

FIG. 86 is a flowchart showing a procedure for switching a display indicating a reading mode;

FIG. 87 is a flowchart showing a ringing sound switching procedure when notifying the reading mode by a ringing sound;

FIG. 88 is a flowchart showing a ringing sound switching procedure when the reading mode is notified by the length of the ringing sound.

FIG. 89 is a flowchart showing a ringing sound switching procedure in a case where the reading mode is notified by the size of the ringing sound.

FIG. 90 is a flowchart showing a ringing sound switching procedure in the case where the reading mode is notified by the number of ringing sounds.

FIG. 91 is a flowchart showing a ringing sound switching procedure in a case where the reading mode is notified by the level of the ringing sound.

FIG. 92 is a flowchart showing switching control of lighting of the display unit when notifying the reading mode by the display mode of the display unit;

FIG. 93 is a reading apparatus having a single reading window (divided into a plurality of areas)

FIG. 94 is a perspective view of a reading apparatus that enables reading during a period in which a part of the scanning lines constituting the multi-scan pattern is emitted in the single scan mode.

FIG. 95 is an external view of the reading device of FIG. 94;

FIG. 96 shows a conventional stationary reader.

FIG. 97 is a cross-sectional view and a perspective view of a conventional stationary reader.

FIG. 98 is a conventional gun-type reader.

FIG. 99 is a conventional touch-type reader.

FIG. 100: Problems when reading a barcode menu with a gun-type reader

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Toshitaka Aoki 4-1-1, Kamiodanaka, Nakahara-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa Prefecture Inside Fujitsu Limited (72) Inventor Toshimitsu Kumagai 4-chome, Kamiodanaka, Nakahara-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa No. 1 Fujitsu Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor ▼ Taka ▲ Yuichiro Shima 4-1-1 Kamiodanaka, Nakahara-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa Prefecture Fujitsu Co., Ltd.

Claims (64)

[Claims] 1. An optical reading apparatus for scanning a mark provided on an article with scanning light, detecting reflected light from the mark, and reading information, wherein the optical reading apparatus is driven by a light source and driving means, and is emitted from the light source. Scanning means for scanning the reflected light, a plurality of reflection mirrors for reflecting the scanning light from the scanning means, a reading window through which the scanning light reflected by the reflection mirror is emitted, and receiving reflected light from the mark A light receiving means, and a head attached to the head, and a grip that can be gripped by a user, and from the reading window, a first scanning pattern and a second scanning pattern. An optical reader characterized by emitting light. 2. The reading device according to claim 1, wherein the scanning unit includes a plurality of reflecting surfaces, and is a rotary polygon mirror that is driven to rotate by the driving unit. At least one of the plurality of reflecting surfaces is another mirror. The optical reader according to claim 1, wherein the optical reader is attached at a different inclination angle from the reflection surface. 3. The reading device, wherein the reading window includes a first area and a second area, a first scanning pattern is emitted from the first area, and a second area is emitted from the second area. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein the second scanning pattern is emitted. 4. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein the first area is a first reading window, and the second area is a second reading window independent of the first reading window. The optical reading device according to claim 3, wherein 5. The optical reading device, wherein the reflection mirror is composed of a first reflection mirror group that generates the first scanning pattern and a second reflection mirror group that generates the second scanning pattern. Characterized by becoming
The optical reading device according to claim 1. 6. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein the first reflection mirror group is constituted by a plurality of reflection mirrors, and the second reflection mirror group is constituted by a single reflection mirror. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein: 7. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein a scanning width of a scanning line emitted from the second area is longer than a scanning width of a scanning line emitted from the first area. The optical reader according to claim 1, wherein 8. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein a back surface of the reading device is formed obliquely. 9. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein a back surface of the reading device is formed so as to have the same angle as an emission direction of scanning light emitted from the second area. Item 10. The optical reader according to Item 8. 10. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein a concave depression is formed on a back surface of the reading device so that a scanning light and a mark to be scanned can be visually recognized. 10. The optical reader according to 8 or 9. 11. The optical reading device according to claim 11, wherein a mark indicating a scanning position of the scanning light is provided at a position corresponding to a start point and an end point of the scanning light emitted from the second area. Item 5. The optical reader according to items 1 to 4. 12. The optical reading device according to claim 11, wherein the mark is a mark attached to a side surface of the second area. 13. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 12, wherein a display is provided at a position where the mark is provided, and a start point and an end point of the scanning light emitted from the second area are displayed. Item 12. The optical reader according to Item 11. 14. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 13, wherein said display means also serves as a notifying means for notifying a user of a result of reading the mark by said optical reading apparatus. apparatus. 15. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 15, wherein a projection indicating a scanning position of a scanning line is provided at a position corresponding to a start point and an end point of the scanning light emitted from the second area. Item 12. The optical reader according to Item 11. 16. The optical reading device according to claim 15, wherein a focal position of the scanning light emitted from the second area is set to be a tip portion of the projection. Optical reader. 17. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein in the optical reading device, the surface of the second region is formed at a position that is more retracted than the first region. 18. The optical reading device according to claim 18, wherein a transparent cover is attached to the second area, and a focal position of scanning light emitted from the second area is located at a front end of the transparent cover. The optical reader according to claim 17, wherein the optical reader is configured as follows. 19. An optical reading apparatus which scans a mark provided on an article with scanning light, detects reflected light from the mark, and reads information, wherein the optical reading apparatus is driven by a light source and driving means and emitted from the light source. Scanning means for scanning the reflected light beam; a first region from which a first scanning pattern constituted by scanning light reflected by the reflection mirror is emitted; and a second scanning different from the first scanning pattern. A reading window having a second area from which a pattern is emitted, and light receiving means for receiving reflected light from the mark, wherein the emission direction of the second scanning pattern is the same as that of the first scanning pattern. An optical reading device, which is directed obliquely upward with respect to the optical reading device. 20. In the optical reading device, the first scanning pattern is constituted by a plurality of intersecting scanning lines, and the second scanning pattern is constituted by a scanning line scanned in one direction. The feature of claim 1
10. The optical reader according to 9. 21. In the optical reading device, a focal position of the first scanning pattern is set to a first position from the first area, and a focal position of the second scanning pattern is It is set at a second position closer to the optical reader than one position,
The optical reader according to claim 20. 22. A focal position of the second scanning pattern,
It is set on the surface of the second area,
The optical reading device according to claim 21. 23. In the optical reading device, a mark reading mode using the first scanning pattern;
A switching unit that selectively switches between a mark reading mode using the second scanning pattern and a mark reading mode. When reading the mark selected by the switching unit, the mark reading is enabled at least during a period in which the selected scanning pattern is emitted. The optical reading device according to claim 1, wherein the optical reading device is used. 24. In the optical reading device, when a mark reading mode is selected by the switching means, a light source is turned on at least during a period in which a scanning pattern corresponding to the selected mark reading mode is emitted. The optical reader according to claim 23, wherein 25. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the light source is turned off during a period in which a scanning pattern that does not correspond to the selected mark reading mode is scanned. 26. In the optical reading device, when a mark reading mode is selected by the switching unit, the operation of the light receiving unit is enabled at least during a period in which a scanning pattern corresponding to the selected mark reading mode is emitted. The optical reading device according to claim 23, wherein: 27. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the operation of the light receiving means is invalidated during a period in which a scanning pattern not corresponding to the selected mark reading mode is scanned. Optical reader. 28. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the invalidation of the light receiving means is an invalidation of a demodulation operation of the read mark information. 29. An optical reading device which scans a mark provided on an article, detects reflected light from the mark, and reads information, comprising: a light source; and a light beam emitted from the light source driven by driving means. Scanning means, a reading window from which scanning light from the scanning means is emitted, and a light receiving means for receiving reflected light from the mark, and a reading window corresponding to a first reading mode from the reading window. One scanning pattern and a second scanning pattern according to a second reading mode different from the first reading mode are emitted, and the optical reading apparatus further includes a first reading mode and a second reading mode. Instruction means for selectively instructing the reading of a mark by the first scanning pattern and the control means for switching the mark reading by the second scanning pattern in accordance with an instruction from the instruction means. Optical reader. 30. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 29, wherein said instruction means is provided at a position operable by a finger of a hand holding said optical reading apparatus. . 31. In the optical reading device, the indicating means is a switch attached to a back surface of the optical reading device, and the switch is operated by either the thumb or the index finger of the hand holding the optical reading device. 30. The optical reader according to claim 29, wherein the optical reader is configured to be capable of being used. 32. The optical reading device, wherein the switch comprises: a switch body provided on the optical reading body; and a switch plate attached to an upper surface of the switch body and pressing the switch body. The optical reader according to claim 31, characterized in that: 33. In the optical reading device, the instruction means includes a plurality of operation units, and only one of the plurality of operation units is operated or a plurality of operation units are simultaneously operated. Depending on
30. The controller according to claim 29, wherein a function of the instruction unit is switched between a reading mode setting function and another function.
The optical reading device according to claim 1. 34. In the optical reading device, the indicating means is detecting means attached to at least one of the side surfaces of the optical reading device, and the side surface of the optical reading device is installed on the installation surface of the optical reading device. 31. The optical reading device according to claim 30, wherein the optical reading device detects whether or not there is an object. 35. In the optical reading device, the instruction means is means for determining whether or not scanning light emitted from one area of the optical reading device has detected a specific mark. Based on the specific mark detection result by the instructing means, the mode shifts to one reading mode while the specific mark is detected, and shifts to the other reading mode during the period when the specific mark is not detected. 31. The optical reading device according to claim 30, wherein reading control of the optical reading device is performed. 36. The optical reading device is used by being installed on an installation surface, and is configured to be used by a user by hand. A second instruction operable by the user in addition to the instruction means is provided. Means for reading, when the reading mode of the optical reading device is set to one reading mode, and the second instruction means is operated, the control means sets the reading mode while the instruction means is operated. 36. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the reading mode is switched to the other reading mode. 37. In the optical reading device, when one of the reading forms is selected by the instruction means,
31. The optical reading device according to claim 30, wherein the control unit validates a mark reading operation at least during a period in which a corresponding scanning pattern is emitted. 38. The optical reading device, wherein one of the reading modes is selected by the instruction means.
38. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the mark reading operation is invalidated during a period in which a scanning pattern not corresponding to the selected reading mode is emitted. 39. The optical reading device according to claim 37, wherein the optical reading device switches on / off of the mark reading operation by turning on / off a light source. 40. The optical reading device according to claim 37, wherein the optical reading device switches between enabling and disabling a mark reading operation by switching between enabling and disabling an operation of a light receiving unit. . 41. In the optical reading device, the first scanning pattern is a scanning pattern constituted by a plurality of scanning lines scanned in multiple directions, and the second scanning pattern is scanned only in one direction. 41. The optical reading device according to claim 30, wherein the scanning pattern is a scanning pattern formed by scanning lines. 42. In the optical reading device, the scanning lines constituting the second scanning pattern are constituted by some of the scanning lines constituting the first scanning pattern. 31. The method according to claim 30, wherein when a mode is selected, a mark reading operation is enabled only during a period in which a scan line constituting the second scan pattern of the first scan pattern is scanned. 42. The optical reader according to 41. 43. In the optical reading apparatus, the instruction means is configured to determine whether the state of the optical reading apparatus is a state to which the first reading mode is applied or a state to which the second reading mode is applied. 43. The control unit, wherein the control unit automatically switches a reading mode to a reading mode suitable for a state of the optical reading apparatus based on a result of the determination by the determining unit. The optical reading device according to claim 1. 44. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 30, wherein said optical reading apparatus includes a notifying means for notifying a user of a selected reading mode. 45. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the notifying unit is a display unit, and the control unit changes a display mode of the display unit according to a selected form. Optical reader. 46. In the optical reading device, the control unit continuously displays the display means when one of the reading forms is selected, and intermittently lights the display means when the other reading form is selected. The optical reading device according to claim 45, wherein the reading is performed. 47. The optical reading device according to claim 44, wherein in the optical reading device, the notification means is a speaker that emits a notification sound. 48. The optical reading device, further comprising: a notifying unit for notifying a reading result of the mark, wherein the control unit changes a notifying mode of the notifying unit according to a selected reading mode. 48. The optical reader according to claim 44. 49. In the optical reading device, the notifying means is a speaker that emits a notification sound, and the control means changes the notification sound emitted by the speaker in accordance with a selected reading mode. Claim 44
The optical reading device according to claim 1. 50. In the optical reading device, the notifying means is a display means, and the control means changes a display mode of the display means according to a selected reading mode when notifying a mark reading result. The optical reader according to claim 44, characterized in that: 51. A switch body attached to an apparatus, and a switch plate attached to an upper portion of the switch body and pressed down by operating the switch body, wherein the switch plate is supported by two or more fulcrums. The switch is configured such that, when the switch plate is operated, the switch plate is rotated in a direction in which the switch plate is operated with the fulcrum as a rotation fulcrum, and the switch means is pressed. 52. The switch according to claim 51, wherein said switch plate is supported by the device by three fulcrums arranged in a triangular shape. 53. A reading window through which scanning light is emitted for scanning a mark on an article with scanning light, detecting light reflected from the mark and reading information, and a handle that can be gripped by a user. A stand on which the optical reading device provided is set, comprising: a holding portion on which the handle is detachably set; and a base portion rotatably supporting the holding portion, wherein the reading window of the holding portion is provided. A stand provided with a slit through which a cable attached to the optical reader can pass, on the side where is located. 54. The stand according to claim 53, wherein a concave recess is formed forward from a position on a bottom surface of the base portion corresponding to a lower end of a handle on which the optical reader is set. Item 53. The stand according to Item 53. 55. The stand, wherein the holder is provided with a member for operating an instruction means of the optical reading device, and the optical reading device can be notified of a state of attachment to the stand. , Claim 5
3. The optical reader according to 3. 56. The optical reading apparatus according to claim 55, wherein said member is formed in a projecting shape, and said indicating means is depressed by said projecting member. 57. The member is a mark that can be read by the optical reading device, and the mark is provided at a position that can be scanned by scanning light emitted from the optical reading device mounted on the stand. 56. The stand according to claim 55, wherein: 58. A reading window through which scanning light is emitted for scanning a mark provided on an article with scanning light, detecting light reflected from the mark and reading information, and a handle that can be gripped by a user. A stand on which the provided optical reading device is set, comprising a stand member on which the optical reading device is set so that a handle of the optical reading device faces a side surface. 59. The stand further comprises: a holding portion on which a handle of the optical reading device is detachably set; and a base portion rotatably supporting the holding portion. 59. The stand according to claim 58, wherein a protrusion is provided on the holding portion so as to be detachably set. 60. The stand, wherein when the optical reading device is mounted, the stand has an angle such that at least one group of the scanning patterns emitted from the reading window of the optical reading device is scanned in the horizontal direction. The stand according to claim 58 or 59, wherein the stand is configured to be mounted with the optical reader. 61. A plurality of reflecting mirrors, a laser light source, a light receiving sensor, and a flat mirror for reflecting laser light emitted from the laser light source are provided near the center thereof, and incident light is collected on the light receiving sensor. A condensing mirror that emits light, a plurality of reflecting surfaces that reflect the laser light reflected by the plane mirror, a rotary scanning unit that is driven to rotate by a driving unit to scan the laser light, the reflection mirror, and the laser. An optical unit for an optical reading device, comprising: a light source, the light receiving sensor, the condensing mirror, and a frame formed integrally with the rotary scanning unit. 62. The optical unit according to claim 61, wherein in the optical unit, the rotary scanning means is attached to the frame via a buffer. 63. The focusing mirror is supported at both ends thereof with respect to the frame, one end of the focusing mirror is movably supported in the front-rear direction, and the other end of the focusing mirror is supported by the focusing mirror. 62. The optical unit according to claim 61, wherein the optical unit is supported so as to be rotatable around a rotation axis coinciding with a longitudinal direction of the optical mirror. 64. An optical component comprising: first and second axes provided on the same axis at both ends thereof; and a third axis attached to one side of the second axis in the up-down direction; The optical component is attached, a slit-shaped first bearing into which the first shaft is fitted, a second bearing into which the second shaft is fitted, and the second shaft into which the third shaft is fitted. A frame having an elongated hole-shaped third bearing that forms a part of an arc centered on the bearing.